Arthroscopy
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:
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Torn Cartilage (Meniscus Tear) – Particularly in the knee.
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Ligament Injuries – Such as ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears.
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Joint Inflammation – Such as synovitis, where the lining of the joint becomes inflamed.
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Loose Bone or Cartilage Fragments – That may cause locking or pain.
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Rotator Cuff Tears – In the shoulder.
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Labral Tears – Such as hip labral or shoulder labral tears.
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Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints.
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Cartilage Damage – Assessment and repair of cartilage damage in the joint.
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Removal of Scar Tissue – To improve joint function and mobility.
​Procedure
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Preparation: Arthroscopy is typically performed under general, spinal, or local anesthesia depending on the joint involved and the complexity of the procedure.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Benefits of Arthroscopy
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Minimally Invasive: Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy involves smaller incisions, which typically lead to less post-operative pain, quicker recovery times, and less scarring.
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Lower Risk of Infection: The smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection compared to more invasive surgeries.
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Faster Recovery: Many patients can go home the same day as the procedure and begin rehabilitation sooner.
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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
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Recovery after arthroscopy is generally quicker than after open surgery, but it varies depending on the joint treated and the specific procedure performed.
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Physical therapy is often recommended to help restore movement and strength to the joint.
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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.
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Risks
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While arthroscopy is generally considered safe, potential risks include:
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Infection.
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Bleeding.
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Blood clots.
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Damage to surrounding tissues.
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Stiffness or swelling in the joint.
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Would you like to know more about arthroscopy for a specific joint, or any other related details?