What is Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine and treat problems inside a joint, like the knee or shoulder, using a small camera and tiny instruments. Instead of making a large cut, surgeons can now make a few small incisions and insert a thin tube with a camera (called an arthroscope) to get a clear view of the joint. This allows the surgeon to visualize and repair the issue, like torn cartilage or damaged ligaments, with minimal disruption to the surrounding tissue. The recovery time using this technique is usually faster and less painful. Another major benefit to arthroscopy is the significant reduction in infections. Arthroscopy also allows for enhanced visualization of the joint or damaged area, enabling more precise and targeted treatment, which further contributes to improved outcomes and overall patient satisfaction.
Most Common Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy
Most joint-related conditions requiring surgery are, at least in part, treated through an arthroscopic procedure. The majority of shoulder and knee soft tissue (ligament, tendon, cartilage, etc.) injuries are treated exclusively through this technique with a select few procedures also requiring a portion of the surgery to be treated through conventional incisions with a scalpel. The most notable injuries treated through arthroscopy are ACL and meniscus injuries of the knee, rotator cuff and labral repairs of the shoulder, and labral repairs of the hip. Other procedures utilizing this technique include repairing torn ligaments of the ankle after a significant ankle sprain, and repairing or stimulating cartilage growth in the knee, hip, or ankle. Patients without a specific soft tissue injury can still undergo an arthroscopic procedure for a simple “clean out” procedure to remove frayed or damaged tissue.
Most Common Procedures using Arthroscopy
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACL)
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (PCL)
- Meniscus Repair
- Rotator Cuff Repair
- Shoulder Labral Repair
- Hip Labral Repair
- Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
- Cartilage Restoration (Shoulder, Knee, Hip, or Ankle)
- Joint Debridement (Clearing of loose or damaged tissue)
Recovery after an Arthroscopic Procedure
One of the biggest benefits of arthroscopy is the reduction in pain due to the incision being smaller than other surgical methods. There is of course expected pain specific to the procedure (for example, an ACL reconstruction requires drilling into the bone to secure the new ligament). Simple cleaning with soap and warm water is all that is required to maintain the incision site. Depending on the surgical procedure, you will be given a handout from your surgeon outlining precautions and the expected road to recovery.
Summary
Arthroscopic procedures offer several advantages over traditional open surgeries in modern orthopedic practices. They are minimally invasive and lead to reduced tissue damage compared to open procedures. This results in less postoperative pain, shorter recovery times, and a lower risk of complications such as infections. Additionally, patients benefit from smaller scars and a quicker return to daily activities.
Our goal at the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute (OSMI) is to provide our patients quality, cutting-edge orthopedic treatments, both surgical and non-surgical. If you have questions or concerns about joint pain, or for more information about arthroscopic surgery, please submit an online appointment request or contact our office at 817-529-1900.
