Arthroscopic Surgery Specialist

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive operation used to diagnose and treat various joint problems. During arthroscopic surgery, your Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine provider makes a small incision near your affected joint and inserts a narrow tube attached to a fiber-optic camera. This tool, called an arthroscope, allows your provider to observe your joint. The camera transmits live images to a digital monitor in the operating room. 

In addition to using smaller incisions than traditional orthopedic surgery, arthroscopic surgery presents less risk of infection, less downtime, and a quicker recovery process. The team usually performs arthroscopic surgery as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home on the same day of your operation.

What types of musculoskeletal problems can benefit from arthroscopic surgery?

At Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine, the team regularly performs shoulder, knee, elbow, and ankle arthroscopy. Some of the common musculoskeletal problems they diagnose and treat with arthroscopic surgery, include:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Shoulder instability
• Meniscus knee tears
• ACL knee injuries
• Tendon injuries
• Ankle instability
• Chronic joint pain

The team also uses arthroscopic surgery to perform ACL knee reconstructions and tennis elbow arthroscopic releases. 

How do I prepare for arthroscopic surgery?

Before arthroscopic surgery, the team at Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your symptoms and goals for treatment. 

If you’re healthy and able to undergo surgery, the team might also ask you to avoid certain medications and to fast before your procedure to prevent side-effects caused by anesthesia. It’s also important you have a friend or family member available to drive you home. Following surgery, you’ll feel somewhat groggy, so you can’t drive. 

What is recovery like following arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is safe and well-tolerated. Following your operation, you recover in an observation room for several hours. Once your anesthesia wears off, your provider prescribes medications to relieve pain and prevent infection. You might also need to wear a sling or cast and use crutches. 

In the first few days following treatment, you should practice the RICE protocol; rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Depending on the type of arthroscopic surgery you undergo, your provider might also recommend physical therapy and rehabilitation. 

To learn more about the benefits of arthroscopic surgery, schedule an appointment at Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine by calling the office or booking online today.