Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy: Understanding the Procedure
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to visualize, diagnose, and treat joint problems. An arthroscope, a small tube with a lens, a video camera, and a light, is inserted into the joint through a small incision, allowing surgeons to view the joint’s interior on a monitor. This technique reduces the need for large incisions, resulting in quicker recovery times.
How Arthroscopy Works
During arthroscopy, the surgeon makes small incisions to insert the arthroscope and other specialized instruments. Irrigation fluid is used to expand the joint, providing a clearer view. The surgeon can then diagnose and repair torn tissues, remove loose fragments, or address other joint issues using the instruments while viewing the procedure on a video monitor.
Joints Commonly Examined with Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is most commonly performed on:
- Knee
- Shoulder
- Elbow
- Ankle
- Wrist
- Hip
Conditions Diagnosed and Treated
Arthroscopy can diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Inflammation of the joint lining (synovium) in the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or ankle.
- Rotator cuff tendon tears, impingement syndrome, and recurrent dislocations in the shoulder.
- Meniscal (cartilage) tears, chondromalacia (wearing or injury of cartilage cushion), and ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears with instability in the knee.
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments in the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, or wrist.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.
Procedure and Recovery
Arthroscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Anesthesia, which may be general, spinal, or local, is administered. After the surgery, small incisions are closed with sutures or tape and bandaged. Patients can often return home within hours and may resume normal activities in a few days to weeks. Athletes may return to sports within a few weeks under medical supervision.
Risks
Arthroscopy is generally safe, but potential complications may include:
- Tissue or nerve damage
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Stiffness
Conclusion
Arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating many joint conditions with reduced recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. It is used across various joints to address inflammation, injuries, and structural problems, offering patients a less invasive option for restoring joint function.
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References
- Arthroscopy – NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/arthroscopy/
- Arthroscopy: Purpose, Procedure, Recovery – WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/what-is-arthroscopy
- What is Arthroscopy?: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/w/what-is-arthroscopy.html
