Today, there are many types of surgeries for orthopedic issues. Unlike in the past when open surgery was the main choice, now there are less invasive options like arthroscopic surgery. At Orthopedic and Spine Superspeciality Centre, our team guides you to the right surgery for your injury. Our skilled orthopedic specialist provide a fast diagnosis, helping you recover and get back on your feet sooner after the procedure.
What is arthroscopic surgery?
A joint arthroscopy is a type of surgery where our doctors use a small camera to look inside your joints. It’s a less invasive procedure, meaning it doesn’t require a big cut, and you can usually go home the same day. Dr. Shrikant Dalal, our joint specialist in Pune, might suggest this surgery if you have joint pain that isn’t getting better with other treatments or if imaging shows a problem in your joint.
During the surgery, you’ll be asleep with general anesthesia. The doctors make small cuts in your joint and insert a tiny camera called an arthroscope. This camera lets them see inside the joint on a screen. If they find any issues, they can use small tools to fix tears or damage. The goal is to diagnose and treat joint problems without a major operation.
Conditions that arthroscopic surgery can treat
In the orthopedic environment, arthroscopy is actually used to treat a wide range of conditions that are relevant to orthopedics. A arthroscopic surgery can be performed on almost any joint, but the most common joints in which arthroscopic surgery is performed are:
- Knees
- Hips
- Shoulders
- Ankle
- Wrist
- Elbow
When a joint arthroscopy is done, one of the problems that is commonly found is arthritis. It is a joint condition that causes pain and inflammation in your joints as well as cartilage degeneration, which produces discomfort as a result. However, other conditions that can be treated arthroscopically include:
- ACL reconstruction
- Rotator cuff repairs
- Meniscus repairs
- Labral repairs
Not all bone or joint problems can be fixed with small surgeries, but the way we do surgeries has improved a lot. So, if you get hurt and need surgery, our Orthos Centre team might be able to fix it without making big cuts and with a faster recovery.
What are the benefits of arthroscopic surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery has lots of benefits compared to the regular open surgery you might be familiar with.
It is obvious that surgery is not something you look forward to, but with arthroscopic surgery, you can relax. This is because there are so many advantages to arthroscopic surgery versus the traditional open surgery that you’re used to.
The arthroscopic procedure, for example, can be performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you get to go home the same day. During traditional open surgery, you are usually required to stay overnight in the hospital. The advantages of arthroscopy extend beyond that; there are also the following benefits:
- Minimally Invasive Precision: Arthroscopic surgery involves tiny incisions and the use of a small camera (arthroscope) to visualize and treat joint issues. This minimally invasive approach reduces trauma to surrounding tissues, leading to less pain, minimal scarring, and faster healing compared to traditional open surgery.
- Quicker Recovery Times: Patients undergoing arthroscopic procedures typically experience shorter recovery periods compared to traditional surgeries. The reduced trauma to the tissues allows for faster healing, enabling individuals to return to their normal activities sooner.
- Reduced Risk of Infections: The smaller incisions made during arthroscopic surgery minimize the risk of postoperative infections. With less exposure to external contaminants, patients can enjoy a smoother recovery process.
- Improved Visualization and Precision: Arthroscopy provides surgeons with a detailed, real-time view of the affected joint, allowing for precise diagnosis and targeted treatment. This enhanced visualization leads to more accurate procedures and better outcomes for patients.
- Less Pain and Discomfort: Due to the smaller incisions and reduced disruption of tissues, patients often experience less postoperative pain and discomfort. This contributes to an overall improved surgical experience and better patient satisfaction.
- Outpatient Procedure Option: Many arthroscopic surgeries can be performed on an outpatient basis, eliminating the need for an overnight hospital stay. This not only reduces healthcare costs but also allows patients to recover in the comfort of their own homes.
- Versatility Across Joint Conditions: Arthroscopy is employed in treating a wide range of joint-related issues, including knee, shoulder, hip, and wrist problems. Its versatility makes it a go-to option for orthopedic surgeons addressing various joint conditions.
- Enhanced Cosmetic Results: The small incisions used in arthroscopic surgery result in minimal scarring, contributing to improved cosmetic outcomes. Patients can enjoy the benefits of effective joint treatment without the aesthetic concerns associated with larger incisions.
You’ll probably feel less pain after arthroscopic surgery compared to open surgery, which is great because it means you won’t need as much pain medication during your recovery.
While arthroscopic surgery has its limits, it’s really useful for our surgeons to figure out and treat different orthopedic problems and sports injuries.
If you’re struggling with joint pain and need help, reach out to our team at Orthos Centre. You can easily schedule an appointment at one of our locations by giving us a call. You can also book a consultation with us online. We’re here to help you feel better!