SURGERY
Are you in need of arthroscopic surgery put not sure what the process is like? Here’s a look at just how this technique is performed.
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that is used in place of open surgery on joints.
The process is performed by inserting a small metal tube into the joint. The tube contains a light source and camera that sends images to a video screen. This allows surgeons to see inside the joint, without having to perform open surgery.
Arthroscopic surgery is often used on those with an active lifestyle, or athletes who require a fast healing time. While it is possible to use arthroscopic surgery on almost any joint in the body, it is most commonly used on the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle, and hip joints. This procedure can be used to both diagnose, and treat conditions.
Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery
Since the process is less invasive than open surgery, recovery time is also reduced. In many cases, patients are able to return home the same day. There is also a lower risk of infection and less scarring, blood loss, and pain following the surgery. Arthroscopic surgery allows patients to return to their regular activities sooner.
When is It Used?
Arthroscopy can be used to treat a range of joint problems –including meniscus injuries, or torn cartilage, and can also be used to repair damaged tendons or ligaments. Common conditions that arthroscopy is used to treat include runner’s knee, rotator cuff tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, and epicondylitis (tennis elbow). It is also used in combination with regular surgery. It can also be used to treat common conditions such as problems associated with arthritis, frozen shoulder, or carpel tunnel syndrome.
An arthroscopy might be used to diagnose a problem such as joint pain or swelling. If nothing is found using an X-ray or CT scan, your doctor may recommend using an arthroscopy to diagnose the condition.
Blackstone Orthopedics provides sports medicine for Rhode Island. If you are experiencing joint pain, contact Blackstone Orthopedics today.
