What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to repair joint injuries using an arthroscope. This technique is commonly employed to evaluate and treat conditions of the knees and shoulders, but it can also be used for the wrist, ankles, and elbows
The Arthroscope
An arthroscope is a thin, flexible, fiber-optic tool, about the size of a straw, equipped with a camera, light source, and surgical instruments. It is inserted into the joint space through a small incision to conduct both diagnostic and treatment procedures. The size of the arthroscope depends on the joint being examined. For example, the arthroscope used for knee examination is approximately 5 millimetres in diameter, while those used for smaller joints, like the wrist, may be as small as 0.5 millimetres.
Who needs Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is recommended for people experiencing:
- Joint problems
- Knee ligament injuries (ACL, MCL, PCL)
- Shoulder conditions
- Various types of arthritis
- Frayed or loose cartilage
Preparation for Arthroscopy
Pre-operative preparation includes:
- A physical examination
- Blood tests and urinalysis
- Adjustment of medications, especially blood thinners
- Management of any underlying medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- An EKG and chest X-ray for patients over 50 or those with a history of heart or lung issues
How the procedure is performed?
Arthroscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. It may involve general, spinal, regional, or local anaesthesia.
- Small incisions, usually around ¼ inch, are made on either side of the joint.
- A video camera attached to the arthroscope allows the surgeon to view the joint's interior on a monitor.
- Additional instruments are passed through the arthroscope to perform repairs, such as cutting, removing, or sewing damaged tissues.
- After the procedure, the arthroscope is removed, the incisions are sutured, and a sterile dressing is applied. In some cases, a brace may be placed around the joint.
What to expect after the procedure
- If a general anaesthetic is used, patients may feel sleepy.
- Pain medications may be administered as needed.
- Surgical incisions are bandaged to absorb drainage.
- The bandage should remain dry and be removed under medical guidance.
- Notify the physician immediately if unusual pain, swelling, redness, or warmth occurs at the joint, or if an injury to the joint occurs.
Post-operative care
- Rest is essential for several days after surgery.
- Ice packs should be applied to minimize pain and swelling, with the joint kept elevated.
- Rehabilitation through an exercise program is usually necessary to strengthen the muscles around the joint and prevent soft tissue scarring.
Recovery Period
- Puncture wounds typically heal within a few days.
- Joint pain can take several weeks to subside.
- In most cases, full recovery occurs within a week if the surgery is successful.
Risks and Limitations
While the procedure is generally safe, risks include:
- Infection
- anaesthesia complications
- Pain or numbness
- Nerve damage
- Less than 1% of patients experience complications