Arthroscopic Joint Reconstruction
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems, using surgical tools no bigger around than a pencil. Originally developed as a diagnostic tool, arthroscopic surgery often allows the orthopaedic surgeon to correct joint problems more quickly and safely than conventional “open” surgery, and with considerably less recovery time.
In an arthroscopic procedure, the surgeon will make an incision about the size of a buttonhole and insert a miniature lens and fiber-optic light source, about the size of a pencil. The surgeon is then able to examine the joint and determine the nature and extent of damage, and often to treat the problem using specially design surgical instruments along with the arthroscope.
Arthroscopic procedures are now frequently used to repair rotator cuff injury, torn cartilage and ligaments, carpal tunnel, and other joint problems. Most frequently, arthroscopic surgery is performed on the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist. While it will require anesthetic, arthroscopic surgery is often performed as an outpatient procedure; many patients return to work or school within a few days, and athletes can often return to normal activity in just a few weeks.
For more more in-depth information, please visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons web site.