Arthrotomy is a medical term used to describe a surgical incision of a joint. This procedure is often done in order to provide access to the inside of a joint or to allow a surgeon to repair damaged joint tissue. Synonyms for the term arthrotomy include joint incision, joint surgery, and joint exploration. Additionally, the term arthroscopy may be used to describe a similar procedure that involves the use of small instruments and a camera to view the inside of a joint without making a large incision. Other terms related to arthrotomy include joint reconstruction, joint replacement, and joint repair, all of which involve surgical procedures to treat joint problems.