Arthroscopic surgery is a surgical procedure that is used by surgeons for diagnosing and treating problems with joints. It is a small surgery and a small incision will be made on the patient’s skin to insert a narrow tube that has a small lens to view the structures in the joint. Surgeons can view the interior of the joint with a small incision, rather than a large incision. Joint damages can be addressed using arthroscopy.
Why is Arthroscopy Used?
The doctor recommends arthroscopy to diagnose and treat different types of joint conditions such as:
- Inflammation caused by conditions such as synovitis
- Chronic injuries such as shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tendon tears, carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, etc.
- Problems related to arthritis can also be treated with arthroscopy
Preparing for the Arthroscopic Surgery
The preparation for arthroscopic surgery is based on the joint your surgeon is working on. But, in general, you should avoid taking certain medications that can cause bleeding. You need to stop eating solid foods eight hours before the surgical procedure. Your doctor will give soapy sponges that need to be scrubbed on the knee or shoulder before undergoing the procedure. Wear loose and comfortable clothing for the surgery.
After the surgery, you will not be able to drive yourself. So, arrange for someone to pick you and drop you to home.
How is Arthroscopic Surgery Performed?
Though arthroscopic surgery is easier than traditional open surgery, it still requires anesthesia and certain equipment in the hospital operation room. Based on the joint that the doctor is operating on, you will be given either spinal, local, or general anesthesia.
During the surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision to insert a small device called an arthroscope that has a camera and a light. This allows the surgeon to view your joint and the images of the joint will be displayed on a screen. The joint will be filled with a sterile fluid to make it wider so that it can be viewed clearly.
The surgeon will look for the problems in the joint, and will a decision on the type of surgery you need. If the surgeon determines that you need surgery, he will make small incisions for cutting, shaving, or for anchoring stitches into your bones.
If the surgeon determines that you need open surgery to treat the problem, he may conduct it on the same day.
Once the surgery is completed, all the instruments including the arthroscope will be detached. The incisions will be closed using stitches or special tape. You will be moved to the recovery room after the surgery. Most patients do not need any pain medications following the procedure.
Recovery After the Surgery
Once you are moved to the recovery room, you will be under observation for one or two hours. If you have pain after the surgery, the doctor will prescribe medications and exercises to relieve the pain. To prevent swelling, you can use ice on the first day. Keep your joint elevated to avoid pain and swelling. Arthroscopic surgery does not cause severe joint pain as open surgery, and the recovery time is also faster.
The wound should be kept dry as much as possible. You can cover it with a plastic cover during bath. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy and other exercises to improve your muscle strength and to enhance the functioning of the joint.
Planning for Arthroscopic Surgery? Visit Dr Suhas Masilamani
If you are planning to undergo arthroscopy to determine the problem with your knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, or wrist, meet Dr Suhas Masilamani. He has been performing different orthopedic surgeries for the past 17 years and he has excelled his skills in it. He is very patient and he carefully listens to you to understand your problem. To diagnose your condition, call us and schedule your appointment.