Arthroscopy

What is arthroscopy?

Arthroscopic surgery (arthroscopy) is a procedure that examines and treats problems in the joints. With arthroscopy, you have a few small incisions instead of a long one. 

Arthroscopes (the surgical tool used in arthroscopy) have miniature cameras and built-in lights. 

The camera transmits images to a video screen, which gives your surgeon a close-up view of the joint. 

Your surgeon uses special surgical tools — thinner and smaller than open surgery instruments — to repair damage inside your joint while viewing it on the screen. 

Arthroscopy is less invasive than open surgery, so it’s the procedure of choice for many orthopedic conditions and injuries. 

What conditions does arthroscopy treat?

Arthroscopy allows your surgeon to closely examine the joint, make a diagnosis, and make repairs as needed. Some of the most common reasons to have this kind of surgery include: 

• Tendon tears, such as rotator cuff tears
• Cartilage damage, like meniscus tears and labral tears 
• Ligament tears, like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
• Inflammation and swelling, like synovitis
• Recurrent joint dislocations

With arthroscopy, your surgeon can perform many different types of repairs, including removing loose bodies (stray pieces of cartilage or bone), reattaching tendons, repairing ligaments, and even reconstructing damaged tissues using grafts. 

Arthroscopy can treat problems affecting the knee, shoulder, wrist, ankle, and hip, as well as other areas where you have joint problems. 

What advantages does arthroscopy offer?

Arthroscopic surgery has some significant advantages when you compare it with traditional open surgery, including:

• Less bleeding
• Less damage to the nearby tissues
• Reduced risk of scarring
• Reduced risk of infection during healing
• Less pain during healing
• Faster return to work and regular activities

Most arthroscopy happens on a same-day basis, generally allowing you to go home within hours of your procedure. 

What is recovery like after arthroscopy?

After your procedure, your surgeon closes the incisions using a surgical adhesive or a few small sutures. You may have a compression bandage over your incisions in the initial stage of healing. 

Los Angeles Orthopedic Surgery Specialists provides a personalized post-surgery recovery plan, including pain management and physical therapy details. Following your recovery plan closely is the key to a full return to the activities you love. 

Are you ready to learn more about arthroscopy? Click the online booking link or call the Los Angeles Orthopedic Surgery Specialists office near you now.