Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic Examinations

Arthroscopic examination of joints is helpful in diagnosis and treatment of the following conditions:

• Inflammation: Synovitis, the inflammation of the lining of the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or ankle
• Acute or chronic injury: Injuries to the shoulder, knee and wrist joint such as cartilage tears, tendon tears, carpal tunnel syndrome
• Osteoarthritis: A type of arthritis caused by cartilage loss in a joint
• Removal of loose bodies of bone or cartilage that becomes logged within the joint

During arthroscopic surgery, either a general, spinal or local anesthesia will be given depending on the condition. A small incision of the size of a buttonhole is made through which the arthroscope is inserted. Other accessory incisions will be made through which specially designed instruments are inserted. After the procedure is completed arthroscope is removed and incisions are closed. You may be instructed about the incision care, activities to be avoided and exercises to be performed for faster recovery.

Some of the possible complications after arthroscopy include infection, phlebitis (clotting of blood in vein), excessive swelling, bleeding, blood vessel or nerve damage and instrument breakage.

Recovery

Colorado Orthopedic Consultants understands the importance of Physical and Occupational Therapy and the vital role they play during the rehabilitation process.

Physical and Occupational Therapists are rehabilitation professionals who evaluate and treat individuals of all ages who have medical or surgical problems or illness or injuries that limit their functional activities. Through exercise, manual therapy, mechanical devices, physical agents that may include heat, cold, electricity, soundwaves and other treatments we help our patients recover from their surgery and regain function.