Freeing the arthroscope of particulate debris

A simple technique is detailed for quickly clearing the tip of the arthroscope of particulate debris that may become lodged there while it is in place in the joint. Two or 3 taps with the back end of a Mayo scissors (or an instrument of equal weight) on the scope where it enters the joint should suffice. The taps must not be too firm, for fear of damaging the scope's fiberoptic cables.