Arthroscopic Surgery

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive approach to examining and treating conditions affecting the joints. Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center uses arthroscopic techniques to assess and, where possible, resolve injuries and diseases affecting the shoulders, hands, feet, and ankles.

An arthroscope is an instrument that looks like a slender, flexible tube; on end is a tiny camera and a light. Your surgeon inserts the arthroscope into a small incision in your joint, then uses the images the camera sends back to guide other arthroscopic instruments.

This technique allows your surgeon to perform various procedures without needing to make large, open incisions.

What are the advantages of arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery has several advantages over traditional open surgery. These include:

• Reduced pain
• Less bleeding
• Lower risk of complications
• Shorter stay in hospital
• Faster recovery
• Minimal scarring

In many cases, it's possible to do arthroscopic surgery on an outpatient basis so that you can return home the same day as your operation.

Why might I need arthroscopic surgery?

Your provider at Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center might recommend arthroscopic surgery to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the joints in your ankles, feet, shoulders, and hands. 

Common problems for which arthroscopic surgery is a good choice include:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Fractures
• Arthritis
• Bone spurs
• Tendon injuries
• Synovitis (where there's no infection)
• Ligament tears
• Joint instability
• Arthrofibrosis (scar tissue formation)

More procedures continually become available as arthroscopic surgery techniques advance. If you need to undergo arthroscopic surgery, Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center has years of experience performing these procedures.

What happens when I have arthroscopic surgery?

You need to have an anesthetic injection in your joint to numb the area for the duration of your operation. You might also need a sedative so you feel calm and relaxed.

Your surgeon makes a small cut for the arthroscope and may do others for any additional instruments they need to use. Fiber optic technology relays images of your joints to a screen in the treatment room, so your surgeon has a clear view of the structures and any damage.

After assessing the arthroscope's camera feed, your surgeon can make any repairs necessary before closing the tiny wounds. After arthroscopic surgery, your provider discusses their findings with you and what further treatment or postoperative care you need.

To benefit from the arthroscopic surgery skills of the Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center team, call their nearest office or book an appointment online today.