Arthroscopic Surgery
articles and medical information from Dr. Nichols

ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY

HOW ARTHROSCOPY WORKS

As we work and play each day, our knees, shoulders, and other joints can have injuries from a sudden accident or from overuse. Arthroscopy makes examining, evaluating, and treating our joints much easier than it was in the past. Orthopaedic surgeons can see inside the joint using only small incisions. The most common orthopaedic arthroscopic surgeries are for your knees and shoulders.

THE ARTHROSCOPIC PROCEDURE

This procedure is usually done in an outpatient setting. No overnight hospital stay is necessary.

At the beginning you will be given an anesthetic to sedate you and usually to sleep

Your surgeon will make small incisions or portals in your joint. The arthroscope ( a specially lighted pencil-thin tube) and other instruments are put into the portals. Through one of the portals fluid is inserted to expand the joint.

With magnification and light, the arthroscope sends an image through a camera to a monitor allowing your surgeon to see and work inside your joint. Using the arthroscope, your surgeon can treat your joint with small surgical instruments.

AFTER ARTHROSCOPY

After the surgery, the incisions will be stitched or taped. You will be able to go home in a few hours. Ice packs, medications, and other aids may be given to you.

Visits with your doctor will be scheduled to ensure you are progressing with recovery. Your doctor may have you do certain exercises. Depending on your condition, a program of personalized exercise with a physical therapist may be prescribed.

Arthroscopic surgery can enable you to return to your regular activities sooner than open surgery can.

INJURIES OR CONDITIONS THAT MAY REQUIRE ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY

The Knee:

Torn cartilage or ligaments from a sudden twist, fall, blow, or squatting.

Worn cartilage from an injury or aging.

Instability or damage to the kneecap.

The Shoulder:

Inflammation or tightness in the shoulder joint from too much reaching or lifting.

A dislocation or unstable joint from a fall or twisting.

Muscle and tendon injuries from muscle weakness as we age.

FEELING BETTER AND RESUMING YOUR LIFESTYLE

With the appropriate treatment and maintaining strength and flexibility, you can feel better and return to your daily activities. Whether a patient needs surgery or not, a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a good diet can keep you stronger.