“Arthro” means joint and “scope”, to see or visualize. It literally means to see inside the joint. The indications (reasons for performing an arthroscope) are varied. They include cartilage, meniscal, and ligamentous damage.

Although the inside of nearly all joints can be viewed with an arthroscope, six joints are most frequently examined with this instrument. These include the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist. As advances are made by engineers in electronic technology and new techniques are developed by orthopaedic surgeons, other joints may be treated more frequently in the future.

Sometimes, the arthroscope is used to determine the cause of joint pain. Occasionally, x-rays, physical exams, MRI scans and various other techniques cannot determine the cause of knee pain. Arthroscopy, since it “sees” inside the knee, can help determine what may be the problem. This is called a “diagnostic arthroscopy” because it helps to diagnose the problem. The arthroscope can also be used to aid in the treatment of various fractures and assist in surgeries such as ACL reconstruction.

Two to four small incisions are strategically placed. Instruments are inserted through one and the camera through another. Sometimes other small incisions (called portals) are used to facilitate fluid drainage of the joint or to allow additional instruments to be introduced into the joint. During an arthroscopy, sterile fluid is pumped into the joint to keep the joint large enough so the camera and instruments can fit in the joint space. It also helps to keep the camera lens clean and free of debris.

As techniques become more advanced and surgeons become more experienced with arthroscopic procedures, more and more procedures that previously required large incisions can be done with the arthroscope.

The arthroscope can also help minimize incision requirements for other surgeries, too. Because of the less invasive manner of the arthroscope, healing occurs quicker and recovery is shortened considerably. Knee arthroscopy, as well as arthroscopy of other joints, has revolutionized orthopaedic surgical patient care.

Recovery after arthroscopy

The small puncture wounds take several days to heal. The operative dressing can usually be removed the morning after surgery and adhesive strips can be applied to cover the small healing incisions.

Although the puncture wounds are small and pain in the joint that underwent arthroscopy is minimal, it takes several weeks for the joint to maximally recover. A specific activity and rehabilitation program may be suggested to speed your recover and protect future joint function.

It is not unusual for patients to go back to work or school or resume daily activities within a few days. Athletes and others who are in good physical condition may in some cases return to athletic activities within a few weeks. Remember, though, that people who have arthroscopy can have many different diagnoses and preexisting conditions, so each patient's arthroscopic surgery is unique to that person. Recovery time will reflect that individuality.

Date: 2/21/2006 11:32:12 AM | Total Hits: 1287

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