Arthroscopy

It's no wonder that more and more doctors and patients alike are turning to minimally invasive surgical techniques.

As opposed to traditional, "open" surgeries, minimally invasive techniques allow your surgeon to make a much smaller point-of-entry incision and reduce the need to cut through otherwise healthy surrounding tissue like muscles, which results in a faster recovery period and less pain and scarring for patients.

Arthroscopy is one of these minimally invasive procedures. It is typically performed on an outpatient, same-day basis.

What to Expect From Arthroscopic Surgery

Also called keyhole surgery, arthroscopy is used diagnostically and therapeutically for patients with suspected joint issues.

The procedure involves the use of an arthroscope, a small, flexible tube with a light and tiny camera that transmits high-resolution video of the inside of your body onto a screen your doctor can watch in real time during the procedure.

Your doctor will insert the arthroscope into the joint through a small incision and be able to see cartilage, muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the joint. Tiny instruments are passed through the tube to repair damaged tissues on the spot.

What Conditions Can Arthroscopy Address?

Your doctor can advise whether you are a good candidate for arthroscopic surgery. This may depend on the severity of your condition as well as your general health.

Arthroscopy is commonly used to diagnose and address chronic joint issues such as pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Generally speaking, arthroscopic surgery may be performed on the knee, hip, shoulder, ankle, wrist, and elbow joints. It may be used to address issues such as:

• ACL tears
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Cartilage tears
• Joint dislocations (chronic)
• Loose fragments of bone or cartilage within a joint
• Ligament disruption
• Meniscus tears
• Rotator cuff repairs
• Shoulder impingement
• Snapping hip syndrome

In some cases, conditions diagnosed and partially treated during an arthroscopy may end up requiring standard surgery to effectively treat the problem.

Outpatient Arthroscopy in Naples, FL

Are you interested in the benefits of outpatient arthroscopy? Contact the orthopedic surgeons at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Florida, to find out if arthroscopy is appropriate for your medical condition or concern. Call (239) 261-2663 or request an appointment now.