Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is one of the most common procedures in orthopaedic surgery. The procedure utilizes a camera thru small skin incisions to evaluate a joint. The procedure can be used to diagnose and treat several joints including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. Some of the common procedures performed arthroscopically include:
- Cartilage (meniscal) repair and trimming in the knee
- Ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the knee
- Rotator cuff repair in the shoulder
- Removal of loose bodies in all joints
- Arthritis (cartilage) debridement in all joints
- And, many other
Arthroscopic surgery is generally an outpatient procedure. It can be done under local, regional, or general anesthesia. Based on the procedure and a patient’s occupation, it is possible to return to work or school in less than a week. Recovery time is variable based on each individual case. Athletic injuries are many times treated arthroscopically with an emphasis on minimal soft tissue invasion to allow expeditious return to sports.
Surgeons within our group have collectively performed thousands of these procedures. Patients have demonstrated restoration of function and improved quality of life. Postoperatively, it is recommended for many patients to attend physical therapy to promote motion and strength. Home exercise programs are also recommended for many patients.
Arthroscopic surgery is a safe procedure which many patients have chosen rather than traditional open procedures. These procedures allow smaller, more cosmetic incisions, less blood loss, and faster recovery time.