Orthopedics - Arthroscopy

Orthopedics - Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure performed by orthopedic doctors to diagnose issues related to joints in the human body.  The term is derived from the Greek word, “Arthro”, which means ‘joints’ and “skopein”, which means ‘to look’. This procedure is carried out when orthopedic doctors are not able to diagnose the cause of the problem and need better access to look into the joints.

For this procedure, an instrument called an arthroscope is used, which is a pencil-like tiny camera, inserted in a patient’s body to examine the cause of pain or certain conditions. The visuals are then viewed on screen monitors. The most common arthroscopic procedures include knee and shoulder arthroscopy.

What do we need to know about the procedure?

Arthroscopy is done by making a small incision on the focus area, and an arthroscope is inserted through that incision. A camera is attached to the end of the arthroscope to view the interior of a joint. This helps orthopedic surgeons to determine and then repair the problem, if required. It is an outpatient procedure that allows a patient to get discharged on the very same day.

Earlier, an arthroscope only used to view the extent of a problem in the joints, but with advancement in technology, repair and corrections are also now possible through arthroscopic surgery. Sometimes other tiny incisions are also made for probing. Compared to traditional surgery, arthroscopic surgery ensures minimal recovery time, less trauma and less pain. It requires the use of anesthesia like any other surgery.

To avail of the procedure, search for an orthopedic doctor near you or an orthopedic hospital near you.

What are the different types?

1. Knee arthroscopy
2. Ankle arthroscopy
3. Hip arthroscopy
4. Shoulder arthroscopy
5. Wrist arthroscopy
6. Elbow arthroscopy

What are the symptoms/conditions that indicate that you may need the procedure?

• You have a joint injury in your knee, hip, wrist or other place, which has led to ligament or cartilage tear.
• You have an infection or inflammation in the joints.
• You have persistent swelling or stiffness in joints such as elbow, spine, knee, wrist and hip and normal scans such as x-rays don't show the reason for the condition.

Why is arthroscopy conducted?

Arthroscopy is conducted to repair the joint-related conditions in a patient’s body. The surgery is done to remove fragments of loose bones or cartilages and excess fluid and treat conditions such as frozen shoulder or ankle, arthritis, damaged cartilage, sports injury, torn ligaments, damage to the knee cap and meniscus injury (forceful twisting that leads to tearing in tissues).

When do you need to see a doctor?

People who have injuries to the joints such as shoulder, knee, elbow and wrist qualify for this surgery.

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chembur, Mumbai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the benefits of arthroscopy?

• Lower infection rate and minimal trauma
• Minimal scarring as the incisions made are very small
• Recovery time is comparatively faster than traditional open surgery
• Less post-surgery pain
• Shorter stay at the hospital.

What are the risks?

• Numbness at the site of incisions
• Chances of infection
• Excessive bleeding or clots in veins
• Allergic reaction to the anesthesia
• Tissue or nerve damage

Conclusion

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that has a host of benefits. Consult an ortho doctor in Mumbai to know more.