Producing still images in arthroscopy.

Videotape recordings of arthroscopic examinations and procedures provide excellent real-time records, but cannot take the place of still images for teaching, referrals, patient education, and publishing. New uses of still images may also emerge as techniques for obtaining them become more convenient and reliable. Current methods for obtaining still images include direct arthroscopic photography, video-screen photography, thermal video printers, and photographic video printers. Although direct arthroscopic photography provides the highest quality images, photographic video printers designed for arthroscopic use appear to provide the best balance of image quality, convenience, and versatility.