Arthroscopy Surgery: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Joint Pain and Injuries

What is Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopy surgery is a modern and minimally invasive joint surgery that allows skilled orthopaedic surgeons to diagnose and treat various joint injuries and pain with better efficiency. Since the surgery is minimally invasive, it causes minimum disruptions to the body. Surgeons make small incisions in the targeted area and insert a tiny camera called an arthroscope, which projects a view of the internal structures onto a large screen. It enhances the efficiency of the surgeons, who can precisely guide surgical instruments to perform the repair.

What Conditions Can Arthroscopic Surgery Treat?

Arthroscopy surgery can treat a wide range of joint pain and injury problems effectively with long-term benefits. Some of the problems addressed by arthroscopic surgery are:

• Torn meniscus in the knee
• Rotator cuff tears in the shoulder
• Labral tears in the hip or shoulder
• Orthopaedic sports injury treatment
• Cartilage damage
• Ligament injuries (in some cases)
• Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage

Arthroscopy Procedure In Detail

Common arthroscopy surgeries, like knee or shoulder arthroscopy procedure, include many steps to ensure a smooth surgery and optimal recovery process. Generally, this is what you can expect from arthroscopy surgery:

• Before Arthroscopy:
  You will first have a consultation with your orthopaedic surgeon to evaluate whether the procedure is suitable for you or not. It is important to inform them about your medications, pre-existing ailments, and allergies (if any). Be sure to mention any blood thinners or NSAIDs you have been taking. You will be advised not to eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours before the surgery.
• During Arthroscopy:
  Arthroscopy is typically an outpatient procedure. This means if there are not any major complications, you can go home the very same day. Since you will receive anaesthesia, it is important that you arrange for transportation and someone to take care of you at home. Most arthroscopy procedures take about an hour, but a few procedures can take longer. During the procedure, the surgeon makes two or three incisions in the treatment area and inserts the arthroscope through them. They will view the live images from the arthroscope to examine joints, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. They will refer to the image to guide surgical instruments and treat the problem. They will close the incisions with stitches or surgical glue.
• After Arthroscopy:
  Ideally, after a successful arthroscopy, you should be able to go home within a few hours. You will be advised not to put weight in the treatment area and to keep it rested for some time. If you had arthroscopy surgery in the hips or legs, you might need assisted devices like a crutch. Apply ice every few hours and keep the area elevated to prevent swelling and discomfort. Keep the incision area clean and dry to prevent any infections. Take the prescribed pain management measures and wear a sling or brace, if necessary.

Arthroscopic Surgery Recovery Time

Arthroscopy surgery recovery time can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the procedure performed and your overall health. The factors that affect the recovery time from arthroscopy surgeries are:

• Joint Affected: Your recovery time after an arthroscopy will depend on the joint that was treated. For example, knee arthroscopy recovery time is usually much longer than wrist arthroscopy.
• Treatment: Arthroscopy is used for both the diagnosis and treatment of joint pain and injuries. If you had joint repair during arthroscopy, then the recovery time can be longer.
• General Health: How you are doing in terms of your overall health is also a factor when it comes to the recovery time.

Benefits of Arthroscopy Surgery

Arthroscopy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure and has a lot more benefits than traditional open surgery. The surgeons make smaller incisions in this surgery, which leads to less scarring and a lower risk of infection. It has a faster recovery time, with most patients being able to go home on the same day. Due to its minimally invasive nature, the procedure does not cause much blood loss. Due to the use of the arthroscope to guide the surgery, doctors can achieve maximum precision.

Potential Risks and Complications of Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopy surgery is a relatively safer procedure, but it can have a few complications like any other procedure in medical science. Some of the potential complications include:

• Allergic reaction to anaesthesia.
• Blood clots.
• Damage to surrounding tissue or nerves.
• Excessive bleeding or swelling.
• Infections.

When to Call the Doctor After an Arthroscopy Surgery

Arthroscopy surgery is a safe procedure, but it is important to look out for these warning signs. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you experience extreme pain or bleeding from the incision site, nausea and vomiting, or see any signs of infections like redness, pus, warmth, or swelling.

The decision to undergo surgery is a personal one. However, if other conventional nonsurgical treatments have not worked for you so far, your orthopaedic surgeon might recommend arthroscopy surgery to improve your quality of life. It is a minimally invasive technique that causes little disruption to your body and reduces surgical trauma. Arthroscopy surgery can provide long-term comfort and benefits for chronic patients.

FAQs

• 1. Is arthroscopy surgery minimally invasive?
  Yes, arthroscopy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure.
• 2. Why is arthroscopy surgery recommended?
  Arthroscopy surgery is recommended to diagnose and treat joint pain and injuries while causing minimal disruption to the body.
• 3. What is the recovery time for arthroscopy surgery?
  The recovery period for arthroscopy surgery can take anywhere between a few weeks and a few months.
• 4. What are some benefits of arthroscopy surgery?
  Arthroscopy surgery is minimally invasive, so it results in less scarring, a lower risk of complications, and a faster recovery time.
• 5. Is orthopaedic sports injury treatment possible with arthroscopy surgery?
  Yes, arthroscopy surgery can provide efficient orthopaedic sports injury treatment.