Arthroscopy in Dogs

Arthroscopy is a procedure used in veterinary and human medicine to diagnosis and treat various joint diseases. Arthroscopy is performed using a specialized telescope-like camera called an arthroscope. In Greek, “arthro” means joint, “endo” means inner, and “skopein” means to look. As translated, an arthroscope is a type of endoscope used to look specifically inside joints.
Arthroscopy Procedure
With arthroscopy, the patient is sedated or anesthetized and a small incision the size of a buttonhole is made in the joint through which the arthroscope is inserted. The arthroscope is roughly the thickness of a pencil, and it contains a light source and a camera lens that is connected to a fiber optic cord which projects the image of the joint onto a monitor. Fluid is inserted into the joint to allow better visualization. The veterinary surgeon can see the joint on the monitor and determine if any abnormalities exist.
“With arthroscopy, the patient is sedated or anesthetized and a small incision the size of a buttonhole is made in the joint through which the arthroscope is inserted.”
If treatment is required, another buttonhole incision is made in the joint through which the surgical instruments can fit. The veterinary surgeon will watch the monitor while performing surgery on the diseased joint.
Advantages of Arthroscopy in Dogs
Arthroscopy is considered a minimally invasive surgery. Compared to traditional surgical methods, it is considered less aggressive. The joint may not need to be fully opened with arthroscopy and only one to two small holes are made in the joint. The instruments used during arthroscopic surgery are smaller than traditional surgical instruments. For all these reasons there is less trauma in the joint which helps to reduce scarring and recovery time for the patient.
What Joints are Arthroscopy used on?
Technically, arthroscopy is possible on all joints; however, in veterinary medicine it is most often used to examine the hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow. It may be recommended for many different diseases and conditions of the joint. For instance, it can be used to treat an osteoarthritic joint which is inflamed and sore.
“Osteoarthritis can result in painful bone fragments called osteophytes which can be removed be removed using arthroscopy.”
Osteoarthritis can result in painful bone fragments called osteophytes which can be removed be removed using arthroscopy. Meniscal tears in the knee joint can be diagnosed and repaired by arthroscopy. Ligaments and tendons which are not easy to see on radiographs (X-rays) can be seen very well with an arthroscope and treated appropriately. Arthroscopy has also been used in veterinary medicine to treat conditions including medial shoulder instability, elbow dysplasia, and biceps tendon injuries.
Diagnosis for Arthroscopy
Typically, your veterinarian will suspect that there is a problem with a joint based on the medical history and physical examination. Diagnostic imaging of the affected joint, such as radiographs, may be recommended before arthroscopy. At times, advanced imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) may be required prior to the procedure. Ultimately, arthroscopy can be used as a superior diagnostic tool, as the inside of the joint can be seen by your veterinarian and an appropriate treatment plan can be made.
Risks of Arthroscopy in Dogs
Your pet may require heavy sedation or general anesthesia, therefore it is important to talk to you veterinarian about risks. Arthroscopy is considered a low-risk procedure with a low rate of complications. Complications may involve leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissue which can cause fluid accumulation (edema) that can be uncomfortable. Generally, the edema will resolve on its own with time. Since the incisions are small, the likelihood of an infection is minimal. Arthroscopy is a specialized procedure and should only be performed by a veterinarian who is appropriately trained.
“Arthroscopy is considered a low-risk procedure with a low rate of complications.”
Recovery & Rehabilitation
The recovery time will depend on the extent of the injury, and the specific joint affected. Compared to traditional surgery, the recovery time is generally a lot shorter. Your veterinarian may initially require your pet to rest for one to two weeks before introducing regular activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Pain medication and anti-inflammatory medications may be required initially. Rehabilitation therapy or animal physiotherapy may be recommended to expedite a return to function.

Hydrotherapy for Arthroscopy in Dogs
Rehabilitation helps ease a dog back into normal activities by safely strengthening the muscles around the weakened bones or joints. Rehabilitation therapy in veterinary medicine is similar to physical therapy in human medicine, but has some obvious differences due the variations in the animal’s anatomy and the extreme forces that can be placed on their joints, bones, tendons and muscles. Canine physical rehabilitation is used to improve the performance and quality of movement for our pets as well as speed healing and provide positive psychological effects. Following certain surgeries and procedures, pets can lose up to one third of their muscle mass in a matter of weeks and it may take that same pet more than a year to regain the lost muscle mass. Rehabilitation makes it easier and less stressful for patients to return to functional activities in their day to day life.
About Dip’ n Dogs Hydrotherapy – Orlando, FL
At Dip’n Dogs Hydrotherapy, we are certified and caring professionals devoted to restoring and enhancing the health and happiness of your beloved pup. Encompassing a pool, as well as a certified hydrotherapist, this can provide effective and long lasting results for your pet’s injury or illness. We are conveniently located in Winter Park, FL. Contact us today at (407) 227-0030. Our Services include the following: Outdoor Hydrotherapy and In-Home Mobile Therapy for dogs. We look forward to hearing from you!

What Our Clients Are Saying
Rachel is extremely kind, gentle and motivational towards animals. She provides quality individual attention.
What a great way to help your animal!Chase Milner March 20, 2018
"My Lab mix Tucker, is a new client of Dip'n Dogs. After just a few assisted swims with Rachel, we have seen great results with his weight loss and overall behavior. Rachel is fun and motivating when in the water and Tucker really loves his weekly swim session!"
Patrick Haggerty March 22, 2018
"Rachel is amazing! The changes in Blu’s overall physical health have been worth every effort. I recommend hydrotherapy for any dog’s overall fitness health."
Jennifer Corso Leonard April 29, 2018
"Rachel is wonderful with our fur baby Bella. We were told by Bella’s vet that she needed to lose some weight and we are already seeing results! Bella may not be the easiest client (very much a diva) but Rachel is so patient and gentle with her. Bella is a mix of husky and German Shepherd so we want to keep her fit to prevent conditions that are common with those breeds."
Kaela Rebecca April 30, 2018
"Our little Yorkie Jack has arthritis and our vet recommended trying hydrotherapy. Jack is a yipper but remains calm with Rachel! After his sessions, we do see Jack go up the two steps he usually avoids, with less hesitation and his walking seems easier! Thank you Rachel!"
Joni Browder April 30, 2018
"Our 11 year-old Yorkie just started hydrotherapy for his arthritis. Since starting, he’s a little more agile, and goes upstairs with more ease! Thanks Rachel for all you do and your extra TLC with our little Jack!"
Caitlin Browder May 5, 2018
My beagle, Badger, is overweight (like many beagles are) but I wasn’t too worried because we would go for long walk/runs to keep him healthy. BUT, his hips began to hurt and he wouldn’t walk for more than just a few minutes. I was worried he would become obese! I found Dip’n Dogs online and signed Badger up for hydrotherapy with Rachel. Not only is he almost back to normal with our walks but he has lost a bit of weight! The swims have definitely benefited him. Rachel is kind, patient and very flexible with scheduling appointments. Plus, her package deals help with the cost. I highly recommend her services. Both Badger and I are much happier than we were a month or so ago!”
Camille King July 12, 2018
“Jack’s mobility has benefited from the swimming sessions in a short time. I appreciate the patience and care Rachel has shown with our 17 year old Jack Russell. He needs special attention and she always gives him terrific assistance. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy earlier in his life. I know he would be in even better shape than he is now.”
Seth Miller July 12, 2018
"Hope is getting her second session of water therapy to help with her arthritis in her spine and legs and build her leg muscles back up! Maria and I love her trainer Rachel!"
Andrea Ruiz-Hays July 17, 2018
"Rachel has been awesome and I would most definitely recommend her!! My 12 year old beagle recently had knee surgery and she reached out to me through social media to let me know about her services. When it came time for him to start hydrotherapy as part of his recovery I contacted Rachel and set up an appointment. She was very responsive to messages and easy to get a hold of to set up our first appointment. After our first session my beagle started walking better and showing improvement in his healing process. I decided to buy a 4 session pack from her and taking him to see her weekly. Since we have started, his mobility has improved after each session and he gets around better than ever."
Caitlyn Canada July 17, 2018
"Rachel became certified in canine hydrotherapy through the certification program we offer through The Canine Fitness Institute. Since then, she has been working with dogs daily and I've seen her skills and competence grow by leaps and bounds. She opened her own business in 2018 - Dip N Dogs Canine Hydrotherapy and is doing a great job helping a wide variety of dogs regain strength after surgery, lose weight, become more mobile even though they have arthritis, and more. To further her knowledge, she continues to study and research a variety of orthopedic conditions that routinely affect dogs. She is very personable and her clients love her and the care she gives their dogs. If your dog can benefit from the incredible healing effects of hydrotherapy, I recommend you give Rachel a call."
Sherri Cappabianca July 17, 2018
"Jack was always extremely active throughout his life. Now at 17 plus years, he isn’t able to walk as well as we would like, due to arthritis and atrophy from age a medications he has taken. The hydrotherapy treatments with Rachel have made such a difference. They have helped him maintain his mobility and gain additional strength. Jack swims twice a week with Rachel. He swims very hard and I think he enjoys the mobility in the water that he no longer has on land. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy and Rachel earlier. I don’t think it is ever to early to start your dog swimming. I know would be in even better shape now than he is, if we had started him sooner. I highly recommend Rachel to work with your pet. She always has Jack’s best interest in mind and we certainly appreciate that."
Carrie Miller September 10, 2018
"Rachel is a pro when it comes to helping our dog Ellie feel comfortable during her swimming session. She has a kind nature towards animals and is really good at what she does. I'm glad we found out about her business. I highly recommend her services for your pet's well being."
Andy Schifaro September 10, 2018
"Rachel's calm, confident approach had our dog very comfortable."
Tracy Robinson September 10, 2018
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer September 10, 2018
"Rachel was wonderful with my Dusty who had an FHO done on his right hip but his left hip is not so good either. As of right now his right has healed wonderfully and his left hip is holding strong! I believe it is because of hydrotherapy with Rachel. Dusty had his surgery in March and I can’t go fast enough for him on his walks! I might need some hydrotherapy myself!"
Terrie Sandefur October 3, 2018
"Rachel seems to see and love my Hannah's Spirit. Hannah recently said goodbye, for now, to Hazel, her litter mate and twin. Needing some fun new experiences and with a recent arthritis diagnosis, Dip'n Dogs was a nice adventure. Hannah enjoys the pool. Seems a natural swimmer. And Rachel has a good positive energy!"
Gwen Hartmann October 4, 2018
"Rachel is a caring and experienced dog guardian and is one of my dog, Maisie’s, favorite people. I highly recommend Dip'n Dogs!"
Marcia Caton February 18, 2019
"Sophie doesn't love the pool but Rachel was so great with her that Sophie was giving her kisses by the end! I'm so excited about Sophie continuing her hydrotherapy!"
Katlyn Billue February 18, 2019
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer February 18, 2019
"Guinness and I are so happy that we met Rachel. She is super nice, gentle, patient and knows how to make Guinness comfortable in the pool, because he gets soo nervous. She is helping Guiness get back on his leg after a luxating patella injury. Right now he is doing great and starting to put his leg down when walking. I would definitely recommend Rachel- best hydrotherapy
:) and she does a great job in the pool. Thank you Rachel!"
Noelia Cocco February 18, 2019
"From the instant that I met Rachel, I felt comfortable with her and would have trusted her with any of my dogs. She came and worked with my senior, blind Shih Tzu this summer. My Millicent has arthritis, bad skin, allergies and had recently developed a heart murmur. Rachel made sure to go over Millie’s health history with me and was very aware of how Millie was doing the whole time she worked with her. It is great exercise for an old, lazy dog!"
Kristi Klein February 18, 2019