Traumatologue - Orthopédiste
Arthroscopic Surgery
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What is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that orthopedic surgeons use to diagnose and/or treat damaged joints and joint related-problems.
It involves making a small incision, about the size of a fingernail, and inserting through it a flexible tube called an arthroscope that has a light and a camera attached to it, to gain a clear picture of any damage in the joint and the surrounding tissue.
During this surgery, a high-definition monitor is used to inspect the inside of the joint.
While viewing the inside of the joint with the the help of the monitor, the surgeon puts surgical instruments through the same incision to treat and repair any joint damage.
Common Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy can be used to treat various conditions, such as:
Torn Ligaments and Tendons: Arthroscopy can be used to treat a variety of conditions related to torn ligaments and tendons, and visualise them directly with the arthroscope, allowing the surgeon to repair or reattach the damaged tissues with minimal surgical impact. Some common arthroscopic surgeries that involve repairing torn ligaments and tendons include: Torn Meniscus repair, torn ACL repair (both involve torn ligaments in the knee) and Torn Rotator Cuff repair (involves torn tendons in the shoulder).
Damaged Cartilage: Arthroscopy can treat damaged or worn-out articular cartilage in joints like the knee, by smoothing out rough areas and removing loose fragments to restore cartilage health.
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Arthroscopic surgery is used to shave off and remove bone spurs which are loose bodies that float within the joint, causing pain and restricted movement.
Inflamed Joint Linings (Synovitis): Arthroscopic synovectomy involves removing inflamed synovial tissue lining the joint. It helps manage conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases.
Loose Bone Fragments: Arthroscopy is used to directly visualize and remove loose bone fragments within the joint. This procedure helps restore joint function and prevent joint locking.
Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allow surgeons to view the interior of the joint without the need for a large incision, unlike traditional open surgeries.
It leads to reduced pain, less soft tissue damage, and quicker recovery periods. Patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery typically experience less pain levels and get better mobility overall. While recovery varies for each patient, many can return to their desk work within a few days to a week and resume their physical activities within a few weeks.
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Dr. Errachid is an expert in arthroscopic surgery, using it whenever possible to treat various conditions. You can rest assured that his expertise in arthroscopy will provide you with the highest standard of care.
If you’re seeking surgical options and want to know if you’re a good candidate for arthroscopic surgery, don’t hesitate. Call us or book an appointment online today! Your well being is our priority.
A: If you have joint pain, limited mobility, or a diagnosed condition that may benefit from arthroscopy, consult with Dr. Errachid to determine if this procedure is suitable for you.
A: Recovery time after arthroscopic surgery depends on the specific procedure and the individual patient. In general, patients can expect to:
- Return home the same day of the surgery
- Use crutches for a few days to weeks, depending on the joint
- Begin physical therapy within a few days to weeks after surgery
- Return to light activities within a few weeks
- Return to sports or strenuous activities within several weeks to months
Your orthopedic surgeon will provide you with a more detailed recovery timeline based on your specific case.
A: During the recovery process after arthroscopic surgery, you can expect:
- Some pain, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site.
- The need to keep the incision sites clean and dry.
- The use of crutches or other assistive devices as directed by your orthopedic surgeon.
- Regular physical therapy sessions to regain strength and mobility in the joint.
- Gradual return to daily activities and exercise under the guidance of your orthopedic doctor and physical therapist.
A: The duration of arthroscopic surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and the complexity of the problem. Most arthroscopic surgeries take between 30 minutes to a few hours. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide a more specific estimate based on your individual case.
A: Arthroscopic surgery is generally less painful than traditional open surgery because it involves smaller incisions and less tissue damage. However, some pain and discomfort are normal after the procedure. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide you with pain management options, which may include medication, ice therapy, and physical therapy.
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