An arthroscope is a special type of endoscope that is used to operate on a joint in a minimally invasive manner. The instrument provides visual access inside the joint, as the end of the tube has a fiber-optic camera capability that provides real-time visualization of the joint to the surgeon – while also enabling the doctor to make repairs as problems are found.
Arthroscopic surgery is appropriate for any of the joints in the body, but it is most commonly used to treat the knee, hip, and shoulder. It is also frequently employed to treat ankles, elbows, and wrists.
Let’s talk about how arthroscopy is most often used by orthopedic surgeons and how you might be able to benefit from this outpatient surgery.
Joints Commonly Treated with Arthroscopy
The following parts of the body are most often treated via arthroscopic surgery:
Knee
Knee arthroscopy is often performed to diagnose and repair a torn meniscus, which is the C-shaped section of cartilage that provides cushioning in the knee and acts as a shock absorber. Each knee actually has two menisci: the medial meniscus and the lateral meniscus.
An orthopedic surgeon can also utilize arthroscopy to address issues of the patella/kneecap and to repair a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). More than half of patients who suffer a torn ACL also have a torn meniscus.
Shoulder
The group of tendons that hold the humeral head (the top of the humerus, or upper arm bone) to the scapula (shoulder blade) is called the rotator cuff. The joint capsule supports the shoulder with ligaments that hold the various shoulder bones in their places.
Arthroscopic surgery is often performed to repair a torn rotator cuff or a damaged joint capsule. It is also often performed to fix a dislocated shoulder, arthritis, bursitis, or fracture.
Hip
An orthopedic doctor may recommend hip arthroscopy for patients who have chronic or severe hip pain that doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatments, such as injections or prescription pain medication. Hip arthroscopy can be performed to repair damage to cartilage and to remove bone spurs. The hip pain may be due to arthritis, overuse, or injury.
Wrist
The wrist comprises eight tiny bones which allow a wide range of motion between the hand and the radius and ulna bones in the forearm. In wrist arthroscopy, the surgeon may remove small bone fragments that are lodged in the wrist and are causing pain. The doctor may also address ganglion cysts, torn ligaments, or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Orthopedic Surgeons in North Naples
Arthroscopic surgery could be the right choice for treating your musculoskeletal condition that is causing chronic pain and discomfort. Whether you have pain or disability in your hip, shoulder, knee, wrist, or another joint, our orthopedic physicians here at the North Naples Surgery Center can repair the problem and help you get back to the active lifestyle you enjoy.
If you have any questions about our services or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our caring staff today. We look forward to being your healthcare partner!
