Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. During the procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint through a small incision. This camera allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint on a monitor, enabling a more precise diagnosis and treatment. Arthroscopy is commonly used for joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist.

Uses of Arthroscopy:

Arthroscopy can be used to both diagnose and treat various joint conditions, including:

  1. Torn Cartilage (Meniscus Tear) – Particularly in the knee.
  2. Ligament Injuries – Such as ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears.
  3. Joint Inflammation – Such as synovitis, where the lining of the joint becomes inflamed.
  4. Loose Bone or Cartilage Fragments – That may cause locking or pain.
  5. Rotator Cuff Tears – In the shoulder.
  6. Labral Tears – Such as hip labral or shoulder labral tears.
  7. Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints.
  8. Cartilage Damage – Assessment and repair of cartilage damage in the joint.
  9. Removal of Scar Tissue – To improve joint function and mobility.

Procedure:

  1. Preparation: Arthroscopy is typically performed under general, spinal, or local anesthesia depending on the joint involved and the complexity of the procedure.
  2. Incision and Arthroscope Insertion: The surgeon makes a few small incisions (about the size of a buttonhole) near the joint. The arthroscope, equipped with a camera, is inserted through one of the incisions. The surgeon can view the inside of the joint on a video screen.
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment: Surgical instruments are inserted through other small incisions to repair or remove damaged tissues, such as trimming torn cartilage, repairing ligaments, or smoothing rough bone surfaces.
  4. Completion: After the procedure, the arthroscope and instruments are removed, and the incisions are stitched or closed with surgical tape. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the issue.

Benefits of Arthroscopy:

  • Minimally Invasive: Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy involves smaller incisions, which typically lead to less post-operative pain, quicker recovery times, and less scarring.
  • Lower Risk of Infection: The smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection compared to more invasive surgeries.
  • Faster Recovery: Many patients can go home the same day as the procedure and begin rehabilitation sooner.
  • Accurate Diagnosis: The high-resolution images from the arthroscope provide a clear view of the joint, allowing for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Recovery:

  • Recovery after arthroscopy is generally quicker than after open surgery, but it varies depending on the joint treated and the specific procedure performed.
  • Physical therapy is often recommended to help restore movement and strength to the joint.
  • Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, though full recovery may take a few months for more complex procedures, such as ligament repairs.

Risks:

While arthroscopy is generally considered safe, potential risks include:

  • Infection.
  • Bleeding.
  • Blood clots.
  • Damage to surrounding tissues.
  • Stiffness or swelling in the joint.

Would you like to know more about arthroscopy for a specific joint, or any other related details?

At Precious Medical Group (PMG), we are here to assist you further. Please feel free to contact us for any enquiry.