Orthopedics - Arthroscopy

Orthopedics - Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is an orthopaedic procedure. It can diagnose and treat joint problems by allowing the orthopaedic surgeon to look inside the joint without making a large incision. To know more about the procedure, consult Orthopaedic Doctors near me or Orthopaedic Hospitals in Mumbai.

What is Arthroscopy?

In Arthroscopy, a surgeon will make small incisions around the joint strategically and insert a scope through these incisions. This scope is a narrow, flexible tube attached to a camera that transmits the images of your joint to a high-definition video monitor.

What are the symptoms/Who needs an Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy can diagnose and treat various conditions of the knee, hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints.

If the results of the X-ray or any other imaging studies are inconclusive or leaves some area of doubt, your surgeon can perform a diagnostic arthroscopy. They can also treat you via arthroscopy by removing the 

• Bone fragments
• Loose torn cartilage and ligaments
• Damaged joint capsule or lining
• Any other loosened and damaged soft tissues present in the joint obstructing the movement

What is the procedure for an arthroscopy?

The joint (on which you require arthroscopy) will guide the exact process for preparing for the surgery. Nevertheless, there are certain common aspects when it comes to preparing for this procedure. The arthroscopic surgery procedure typically involves three phases - before, during, and after the surgery.

 Before the surgery

• Surgical fitness

    You will require a fitness certificate of fitness before getting the procedure. It will merely be an evaluation of your health status to ensure the arthroscopy poses no risk.

• Fast beforehand

    You will receive anesthesia depending on the joint for arthroscopy. Your surgeon may want you to have an empty stomach for eight hours before the procedure.

• Avoid certain medications

    Certain medications may increase your risk of bleeding. Your doctor will want you to avoid taking those medications before the surgery.

• Comfortable clothing

    Wear loose and baggy clothes. Comfortable clothes will be easier to wear after the procedure. 

• Arrange for a ride back home

    You will not be allowed to drive yourself home after the surgery. You may want to arrange for the ride back home beforehand to avoid the hassle after the surgery.

What happens During the surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery promises faster recovery compared to open surgery. But it does require anesthetics or sedation and specialized equipment.

The anesthesia will depend on the joint for which you are undergoing the arthroscopy. You may receive either general, spinal, or a local anesthetic. 

The surgical staff will position you on your back or side - depending on which will provide them with the best view and angle to work. They will apply a tourniquet (to decrease blood loss) and sterilize the area of surgery. In some cases, your surgeon may also fill the joint with sterile fluid to expand the space. It will give a better view of the inside of the joint for surgery.

The surgeon will make a small incision to insert the arthroscope. They will then make several other incisions to view the other part of your joint or insert the instruments. These instruments can help grasp, cut, file, or suction the tissue debris as needed.

The incisions are small enough to require only a couple of stitches to close. Adhesive tapes help dress these stitches. 

What care should you take After the surgery?

Often due to the small size of the incision, recovery is faster, and you may require little to no pain medications. The surgeons may shift you to a recovery room to observe you for a few hours before discharging you.  

• After the discharge, you will need to follow some aftercare instructions:
• Avoid strenuous activities to aid your recovery.
• Take medications to settle the inflammation and any pain following the surgery.
• You may have to splint the joint to protect it for a few days.
• Exercise and physical therapy can help strengthen your muscles and improve endurance.

To know more, you can search for orthopaedic doctors near me or orthopaedic hospitals in Tardeo, Mumbai, or simply

Request an appointment at: Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Tardeo, Mumbai

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment

Conclusion

Arthroscopic surgery promises faster recovery for all your joint troubles. The procedure is simple and can provide relief.Contact the best Orthopaedic doctors near you now.