What is Arthroscopy? Resolving Joint Issues

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that identifies and resolves issues inside a joint. It can be performed on any joint in the body and is usually recommended by an orthopedic surgeon when there’s inflammation, an injury, or damage over time.

Who Needs Arthroscopy?

Healthcare providers recommend an arthroscopic procedure to people who have injured or damaged their meniscus, cartilage, tendons, or ligaments. Many patients explore other treatments with one of the following procedures before choosing arthroscopy:

• Braces or splints
• Medications and steroid injections
• Physical therapy
• Rest

Arthroscopy is the next recommended step if these solutions don’t bring relief. 

Why is Arthroscopy Done?

Several symptoms might improve with arthroscopy. Common issues that are usually treated with surgery are:

• Torn ligaments, cartilage, and tendons
• Arthritis
• Wrist pain
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears
• Rotator cuff tears
• Dislocated shoulder, frozen shoulder, or shoulder impingement

How is an Arthroscopy Procedure Performed?

First, patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery receive anesthesia. From that point, the procedure usually takes an hour or more.

During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon makes two or three incisions in the area that needs treatment. Then, the surgeon inserts the arthroscope and other small instruments into the small incisions. The arthroscope then projects images of the joints, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons to a monitor for examination by the surgeon.

After examining the images, the orthopedic surgeon can diagnose or surgically treat the problem. Once the issue is identified and resolved, the arthroscope and all surgical instruments are removed. After the repair, the incisions are closed with stitches and bandages.

Arthroscopy Recovery

Patients can go home within a few hours of the procedure. Because of the anesthesia, however, patients should not drive themselves home and should plan to have a family member or friend take them home.

After the procedure, your doctor will recommend that you:

• Take showers instead of baths until the incision heals
• Wear a sling or brace
• Keep the incision covered and clean
• Manage pain with the recommended medication
• Keep the area elevated and iced
• Avoid putting any weight or pressure on the area

Your surgeon may recommend additional care depending on the area that they treated. 

Get the Best Arthroscopic Surgery Care in Maryland

Get exceptional care close to home at the Mid-Maryland Musculoskeletal Institute. Our team will help you recover quickly with physical and occupational therapy, ergonomic assessments, and work conditioning. Shorten overall recovery time and minimize the risk of lost work time by making an appointment or visiting our website to learn more.