Orthopaedics - Arthroscopy

Orthopedics – Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a low-risk, minimally invasive surgery performed on the joints affected due to inflammation, injury or any other damage. It is performed through an arthroscope, a narrow tube inserted in the joint through a small cut.

It is performed for less severe joint wounds and the patient is usually discharged on the same day.

To avail of the procedure, contact an orthopedic doctor near you or visit an orthopedic hospital near you.

What is arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a surgical process that does not require opening the joint completely to examine or treat an injury. This orthopedic surgery is usually done for the knee, hip, wrist, ankle, foot, shoulder and elbow.

surgeon examines the wound through an arthroscope attached to a fiber-optic video camera transmitting on a monitor the view inside. It sometimes also helps repair damage while examining.

What are the conditions treated by arthroscopy?

• Inflammation
  Any injury like dislocation or torn ligament can result in swelling and numbness in the joint due to increased blood flow. Arthroscopic surgery is suggested when therapy and medication don’t work.
• Torn ligament or tendon
  Ligaments are the stabilizing agents of your joints, and tendon tissues connect bones with muscles. They can be torn apart due to joint overuse, fall, twist, etc. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the knee falls under arthroscopic surgery.
• Damaged cartilage
  Cartilage tissue connects bones and also acts as their protective cover. The wounded area restricts movement that can lead to osteoarthritis if not treated on time.
• Loose bone fragments
  These fragments are attached to a bone or cartilage that locks the joints in place. An orthopedic doctor spots the fragments through arthroscopy and removes them during the surgery.
• Torn meniscus
  Arthroscopy is performed chiefly to repair damaged meniscus. It is a C-shaped cartilage between the shin and the thigh bone, which absorbs shock. A twist due to heavy lifting can tear the meniscus apart.

What are the risks associated with arthroscopy?

Risks include:

• Infections
• Clotting
• Artery & nerve damage

When do you need to see a doctor?

If you feel any pain, swelling, numbness or difficulty in moving joints, you should consult an orthopedic surgeon near you. The doctor will recommend an arthroscopy if needed.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, MRC Nagar, Chennai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

How is arthroscopy performed?

• At first, anesthesia will be given, depending upon the intensity of the wound and the type of surgery.
• A pencil-thin tool will then be inserted through a small cut to look inside the joint. The surgeon can also use sterile fluid to expand the wound to examine it in detail.
• After examination, the doctor will tell you if you need surgery or not.
• If surgery is required, the arthroscope will be inserted to trim, shave and repair the joint.
• Finally, the surgeon will stitch or close the cut.

At home, you should follow these steps to recover quickly:

• Take medicine on time
• Keep the wound dry
• Get proper rest
• Don’t engage in strenuous activities 

The orthopedic physician will monitor the wound for 2 to 3 weeks before allowing you to resume work and light exercising.

Conclusion

Timely treatment can save you from any severity or complication in the future. Hence, if you feel any discomfort or pain in the joint, immediately contact an orthopedic physician in Chennai.