When your pet develops a limp or seems less eager to move, the cause isn’t always obvious. Joint conditions can be complex—sometimes subtle, sometimes progressive—and they don’t always show up clearly on standard imaging.
That’s where arthroscopy makes a difference.
At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital Bellingham (BBVSH Bellingham), arthroscopy is performed by board-certified veterinary surgeons with advanced training in orthopedic procedures. Combined with on-site diagnostics and rehabilitation support, this approach allows for a more complete understanding of joint disease—and a more precise path to treatment.
What Arthroscopy Actually Allows Us to See
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small camera to look directly inside a joint. Through tiny incisions, the surgeon can examine joint structures in detail and treat problems at the same time.
This direct visualization is one of its greatest strengths. Rather than relying only on imaging, arthroscopy allows surgeons to assess cartilage, ligaments, and joint surfaces in real time—often identifying abnormalities that might otherwise go undetected.
Because the procedure is performed through small portals, it also results in less trauma to the joint, reduced inflammation, and a smoother recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
When Arthroscopy Becomes the Next Step
Arthroscopy is most commonly used for joint-related conditions in dogs and cats, particularly in larger or more active breeds. It is often recommended when a pet has persistent lameness that hasn’t improved—or when imaging like X-rays or CT scans doesn’t fully explain the symptoms.
Common indications include:
- Elbow disease, such as elbow dysplasia or fragmented coronoid process.
- Shoulder conditions, including osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and biceps tendonitis.
- Knee (stifle) injuries, including cranial cruciate ligament tears (especially partial tears that may not be visible on X-rays) and meniscal damage.
- Tarsal (ankle) joint issues, which are frequently underdiagnosed but still cause pain and lameness.
In many of these cases, arthroscopy allows the surgeon to both confirm the diagnosis and treat the problem during the same procedure.
Signs That May Point to a Joint Issue
Joint disease often develops gradually, and the early signs can be easy to overlook. If your pet is showing any of the following, it may be time for further evaluation:
- Limping or favouring one leg.
- Difficulty standing up, walking, or climbing.
- Stiffness, especially after rest.
- Reduced activity or reluctance to play.
- Swollen joints or discomfort when touched.
- Ongoing lameness that hasn’t improved with rest or medications.
When these signs persist, your veterinarian may recommend advanced diagnostics—including arthroscopy—to better understand what’s happening inside the joint.
A Different Approach Than Traditional Surgery
Traditional joint surgery (arthrotomy) requires opening the joint with a larger incision. Arthroscopy, in contrast, uses small portals—typically 5–10 mm—to access the joint with specialized instruments.
This difference has meaningful clinical impact. Smaller incisions generally mean less pain, less swelling, and a lower risk of complications such as infection. The magnified view provided by the camera also improves diagnostic accuracy and allows surgeons to address problems more precisely.
For many pets, this translates into a shorter recovery timeline—often days to weeks instead of weeks to months.
What Happens During Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is performed under general anesthesia to ensure your pet remains comfortable and still.
During the procedure:
- Small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and surgical tools.
- A high-resolution camera provides a magnified view inside the joint.
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments are removed, damaged tissue is debrided, and the joint is flushed.
- The incisions are closed with a few sutures.
Most procedures take 30–60 minutes, depending on the joint and the complexity of the condition.
Recovery Is More Than Rest
Because arthroscopy is minimally invasive, recovery is typically quicker and more comfortable than with traditional surgery. However, what happens after surgery plays a major role in the outcome.
Initially, pets require restricted activity for 2–3 weeks, avoiding running, jumping, or rough play. Pain medications and anti-inflammatories help manage discomfort, and cold compresses may be recommended in the first few days.
Beyond this early phase, structured rehabilitation becomes an important part of recovery. At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital Bellingham, animal rehabilitation is designed to:
- Improve mobility and joint function.
- Reduce pain and inflammation.
- Support recove