Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint conditions. Arthroscopy uses a small lens and illumination system, housed in a pencil-thin instrument called an arthroscope, to provide a detailed view of the joint interior through 4.5 mm incisions.
When Is Arthroscopy Necessary?
The diagnosis of joint conditions is made with a thorough history, physical examination, radiographs, and laboratory techniques. Arthroscopy is frequently used in the treatment of joint conditions. It is performed on the knee, shoulder, ankle, wrist, elbow, and hip joints.
How Is Arthroscopy Performed?
Operating room conditions and anesthesia are required for arthroscopic procedures. Diagnostic arthroscopy can be performed under local anesthesia. Mild painkillers are usually sufficient after the procedure. The length of hospital stay varies depending on the type of procedure. Except for patients undergoing ACL or Kneecap dislocation repair, the hospital stay is generally one day. A cast is not applied after arthroscopic surgery. In some cases, knee braces that allow controlled movement are used. After some procedures, crutches must be used for 3-4 weeks, and full weight bearing on the operated leg must be avoided. Arthroscopy is commonly used for the following problems.
The Most Common Problems of the Knee Joint:
- Meniscus Tears
- Ligament Tears, Especially Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears
- Articular Cartilage Damage
- Loose Bodies (Joint Mouse)
- Inflammation and Enlargement of the Knee Joint Membrane (Synovitis); It is usually due to rheumatic conditions.
- Arthrosis or Arthritis
The Most Common Problems in the Shoulder:
- Treatment of Muscle Strain or Recurrent Shoulder Dislocations,
- Interventions for Cartilage and Muscle Tendon Diseases within the Shoulder Joint,
- Treatment of Arthritis in the Early Stage,
- Removal of the Thickened Joint Lining Membrane in Rheumatic Diseases,
- Releasing Restrictions on Shoulder Movement,
- Removal of Loose Intra-Articular Bodies,
The Most Common Problems in the Ankle:
- Intra-Articular Fractures (Fragment Detachment and Joint Dislocation) Mice)
- Meniscoid Lesions (Tissue Compressions Occurring After Repetitive Sprains)
- Early Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatic Diseases
The Most Common Problems in the Wrist:
- Treatment of Intra-Articular Fractures,
- Releasing Nerve Compressions,
- Treatment of Ligament Tears Between the Wrist Bones,
- Treatment of Articular Cartilage Damage,
- Tears in the Cartilage Pad Within the Joint
The Most Common Problems in the Elbow:
- Cartilage Fragmentation and Treatment of Joint Mice,
- Removal of Loose Bodies,
- Finishing of Bony Spurs that Impede Movement,
- Removal of Thickened Joint Lining Membranes in Rheumatic Diseases,
- Removal of Benign Intra-Articular Tumors and Cysts,
The above-mentioned conditions can be treated arthroscopically or arthroscopically assisted.