Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to visualize, diagnose, and treat various joint conditions. It involves the use of a small, flexible tube called an arthroscope, which is equipped with a light source and a camera. The arthroscope is inserted through small incisions in the skin, providing the surgeon with a real-time video feed of the joint on a monitor.

Here are key aspects of arthroscopy:

Purpose:

• Diagnostic Arthroscopy: Used to inspect and diagnose joint conditions, such as damage to cartilage, ligaments, or menisci.
• Therapeutic Arthroscopy: Involves surgical intervention to treat identified issues, such as repairing torn ligaments, removing loose bodies, or smoothing damaged cartilage.

 

Common Joints for Arthroscopy:

• Knee Arthroscopy: Commonly performed to address issues such as meniscal tears, ligament injuries (ACL, PCL), and cartilage damage.
• Shoulder Arthroscopy: Used for conditions like rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and impingement syndrome.
• Hip Arthroscopy: Applied to problems like femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, and synovitis.
• Ankle Arthroscopy: Utilized for conditions such as cartilage injuries, loose bodies, and impingement.

 

Procedure:

• Anesthesia: Arthroscopy is often performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the joint and the complexity of the procedure.
• Incisions: Small incisions, called portals, are made near the joint. These serve as entry points for the arthroscope and other surgical instruments.
• Arthroscopic Examination: The surgeon inserts the arthroscope to visualize the joint structures, identifying any abnormalities.
• Treatment: If necessary, additional small incisions may be made for instruments to perform surgical interventions, such as repairing ligaments or removing damaged tissue.
• Closure: After the procedure, the incisions are typically closed with stitches or adhesive strips.

 Advantages:

• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions result in less tissue damage, potentially leading to quicker recovery times and less scarring.
• Direct Visualization: The arthroscope provides a detailed, magnified view of the joint structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Recovery:

• Postoperative Care: Depending on the procedure, patients may be able to go home on the same day or may require a short hospital stay.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is often prescribed to help restore joint function and strength.
• Return to Activity: Recovery times vary depending on the procedure, but many patients can gradually return to normal activities within a few weeks to months.

Arthroscopy has become a widely used and valuable tool in orthopedics for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Its minimally invasive nature often results in reduced pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes compared to traditional open surgery. However, the appropriateness of arthroscopy depends on the specific condition and the recommendations of the treating orthopedic surgeon.

Category : Arthroscopy