Imagine being able to see the inner workings of your knee without major surgery. That's the power of arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to diagnose and treat joint problems. This technique is being extensively performed wherever feasible by surgeons. 

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What is Arthroscopy?

The word "arthroscopy" comes from the Greek words "arthro" (joint) and "skopein" (to look). So, essentially, it means "to look within the joint." During an arthroscopy, an orthopedic surgeon makes small incisions around the joint and inserts a pencil-sized instrument called an arthroscope. This arthroscope houses a tiny camera and light source, offering a high-definition view of the joint's interior on a monitor.

What Are the Benefits of Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is advantageous in many ways over traditional open surgery:

Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions translate to less pain, scarring, and blood loss.

Faster recovery: Patients often go home the same day or shortly after the procedure and experience a quicker return to normal activities.

Improved visualization: The magnified view allows for a more precise diagnosis and treatment.

Reduced risk of complications: Smaller incisions decrease the risk of infection and other complications associated with major surgery.

What can be diagnosed and treated with Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a versatile tool used for various joint conditions, most commonly in the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist. Here are some examples:

Tears in ligaments or tendons: This includes the common ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear in the knee and rotator cuff tears in the shoulder.

Joint inflammation: Arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

Cartilage damage: Surgeons can remove damaged cartilage fragments or repair small tears.

Meniscus tears: This is a common knee injury where the meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage, gets torn.

Loose bodies: These are fragments of bone or cartilage that can float within the joint, causing pain and discomfort.

Joint instability: Arthroscopy can help repair structures that contribute to joint instability.

How Arthroscopy is Performed?

• Before the procedure, your doctor will discuss the details, including the specific joint being addressed, potential risks and benefits, and recovery expectations.

• On the day of the surgery, you will likely receive general or regional anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Small incisions are made, and the arthroscope is inserted. The joint is then inflated with sterile fluid to improve visualization.

• The surgeon uses the arthroscope to examine the joint, diagnose the problem, and determine the course of action. If necessary, additional instruments are inserted through other small incisions to perform the needed repair or removal of tissue.

• Once the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed, the incisions are closed with stitches or steri-strips, and a bandage is applied.

What Recovery is Like after Arthroscopy?

Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the specific joint involved. Typically, patients experience some soreness and swelling for a few days and require physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

In Conclusion

Arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating various joint problems. Its minimally invasive nature makes it a preferred option over traditional surgery for many patients. If you are experiencing joint pain or have concerns about a potential injury, consult with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss the possibility of arthroscopy and determine if it's the right course of action for you.

Know more about the challenges and advancements in the field of arthroscopy by registering for the MAOA Annual Meeting 2024.