Arthroscopy is a orthopedic surgery used for diagnosing arthralgia, treating certain joint problems and addressing a couple of bone related issues. The beauty of this joint repair treatment is it requires only a small incision so scarring is minimal, the typical time it takes is quick for a surgery and recovery is relatively painless and short.
Arthroscopic surgery involves inserting an arthroscope (essentially a tiny camera) into your joint through a small incision. This allows your surgeon to view the inside your joint in an effort to determine what’s causing you pain or problems. Should your issue require only minor joint repair treatment, then it can be performed immediately through another small incision. And this orthopedic surgery is guided by the already inserted scope.
Some of the health conditions being treated with arthroscopic surgery include:
- TMJ
- trim bone spurs
- repair torn tendon
- treat joint infection
- repair torn ligaments
- repair damaged meniscus
- remove inflamed joint lining
- remove loose bone fragments
- perform carpal tunnel surgery
- repair damaged, torn cartilage
- trim joint scarring, tissue overgrowth
Although arthroscopy complications are uncommon, all surgeries carry some risk. Possible complications arising from this joint repair treatment are:
- infection
- blood clots
- allergic reaction to anesthesia, pain relievers
- surgical instrument caused joint, blood vessel & nerve damage
After arthroscopic surgery your joint may be stiff and sore.
Your after arthroscopy care may involve:
- R.I.C.E.
- taking antibiotics to prevent bacterial infection
- taking drugs to relieve joint pain & inflammation
- physical therapy to strengthen muscles & improve joint function
And depending on the nature of the joint repair you may be advised certain movements should be restricted for up to a month afterwards.