Arthroscopy
Joint problems can cause significant pain and discomfort. If you're experiencing joint issues,
consider arthroscopy as a treatment option. Arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure that
can efficiently diagnose and resolve joint problems. Learn everything you need about
arthroscopy, including the benefits, procedures, and recovery process.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. Unlike traditional open surgeries, arthroscopy involves making only a few small incisions through which an arthroscope, a thin tube-like instrument with a camera and light, is inserted to provide a view of the joint’s interior. This procedure has several benefits, including lower blood loss, less scarring, fewer risks of infections, and quicker rehabilitation than open surgeries.
Conditions Treated By Arthroscopy
Arthroscopic surgery can diagnose and treat different joint conditions, such as inflammation, acute or chronic injuries, loose bodies of bone/cartilage, arthritis, etc. The following are common joint conditions treated with arthroscopy:
Knee Conditions
Arthroscopy is essential for treating several knee conditions, including torn meniscus, ACL reconstruction, cartilage damage, etc.
Shoulder Conditions
Arthroscopy treats rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, and frozen shoulder syndrome.
Hip Conditions
Arthroscopy can treat hip labral tears, hip impingement, and osteoarthritis.
Ankle And
Wrist Conditions
Arthroscopy may be used to diagnose and treat issues such as ganglion cysts, ligament tears, and tendonitis.
Arthroscopy Procedure And Recovery
During an arthroscopy, a surgeon makes small incisions on the affected joint, inserts the arthroscope, and examines the joint to identify any ailment. Once the issue is identified, the surgeon can remove it through an additional hole.
For most patients, the recovery period after arthroscopy is relatively quick. Physical therapy, a balanced diet, and rest are essential to successful rehabilitation. Physical therapy helps to strengthen and improve motion in the affected joint, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain. Patients must remain diligent in their rehabilitation process, eating a balanced diet, taking pain medication as prescribed, and avoiding exercises outside the healing process.
Advantages of Arthroscopy Over Traditional Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery has several advantages over traditional open surgeries. The procedure is less invasive, has a rapid recovery period, less blood loss, minimal scarring, and fewer risks of infections or complications. Plus, arthroscopy may be less expensive, and certain insurance policies could cover the procedure, making it an affordable option for many patients.
Why Choose
Orthopedic Specialists
When considering arthroscopy, it’s important to choose the right health provider. When choosing a health provider for arthroscopy, factors include experience, reputation, and reviews from previous clients. It’s also important to ask questions when consulting a health provider and prepare adequately for the procedure. At orthopedic specialists, we are dedicated to providing exceptional and personalized care to our patients needing an arthroscopy. Don’t let your joint pain interfere with your daily activities – schedule a consultation with orthopedic specialists today to learn more about how arthroscopy can help you regain mobility and quality of life.
Book Your AppointmentFAQs
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive and relatively safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risk of complications. Some possible complications that may occur with arthroscopy include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve Damage
- Blood Clots
- Reaction To Anesthesia
It’s essential to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your orthopedic surgeon before the procedure. Following your doctor’s postoperative instructions and attending all scheduled follow-up appointments can minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery.
Arthroscopy is typically considered a minimally invasive or minor surgical procedure. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the joint, and a tiny camera is inserted to visualize the joint and surrounding tissues. Specialized instruments are then used to make any necessary repairs or corrections.
The duration of arthroscopic surgery varies depending on the nature and extent of the procedure. Most arthroscopies are completed within 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, complex cases involving multiple joints, significant damage, or extensive reconstruction may take longer.
The recovery time for an arthroscopy procedure can vary depending on the specific joint that was operated on and the extent of the procedure. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months to fully recover and regain full function.
During arthroscopy, the patient is usually placed under general or regional anesthesia, so they should not feel any pain during the procedure. The anesthesia will ensure the patient is numb and comfortable during surgery.
After the procedure, the patient will likely experience some pain and discomfort at the incisions and joint site. However, the severity of the pain can vary depending on the patient’s pain tolerance and the extent of the procedure. To manage postoperative pain, your doctor may prescribe pain medication and recommend physical therapy to help you recover.
A doctor may recommend arthroscopy if conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes have not adequately addressed a joint problem. Arthroscopy may be used for diagnosis as well as treatment. Some common conditions that may benefit from arthroscopy include:
- Damaged cartilage and ligaments in the knee, shoulder, hip, or ankle.
- Torn rotator cuff or labrum in the shoulder.
- Loose bodies, such as bone fragments or cartilage, are in the joint.
- Inflammation and/or joint damage may be due to rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or infection.
- Joint infections.
- Recurrent joint pain or stiffness that persists despite conservative treatments.
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or limited mobility in a joint, contact Orthopedics Specialist to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate course of treatment.
After knee arthroscopy, it’s important to keep your leg elevated and avoid putting pressure on the knee joint to reduce swelling and promote healing. The best sleeping position after knee arthroscopy is typically on your back, with your leg elevated and supported by a pillow or two. This position allows for proper blood circulation and reduces the pressure on the knee joint. It’s important to avoid sleeping on your stomach or the side of the affected knee, as this can put additional pressure on the joint and potentially prolong the healing process.
It’s also essential to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully, including any recommendations for sleeping positions, to ensure a successful recovery.
After an arthroscopy procedure, patients can expect some pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint area. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or prescription pain relievers, as your doctor recommends. You may also be advised to use ice packs to reduce swelling and compression bandages or braces to help support the joint during the initial healing period. In case of any severe pain, swelling, redness, drainage around the incision site, or any other alarming symptoms, you must call your doctor immediately.
Patients should avoid strenuous activities or exercise for a certain period as their doctor recommends and try to rest and keep the affected limb elevated while healing. Physical therapy is also recommended to help restore strength, range of motion, and functionality in the joint. Generally, patients can resume their normal activities within several weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.