Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat many joint issues. It involves the use of an arthroscope, which is a small tube with a light and camera, that is inserted into the body through a tiny incision. Arthroscopy has become increasingly popular for treating arthritic conditions due to its many clear advantages over traditional open surgery.
Arthroscopy can be used to treat different types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, both of which cause inflammation of the soft tissues, bone spurs, and trauma to bones and other soft tissues. The procedure is particularly effective for treating arthritis in the knee, shoulder, and hip joints.
Keep reading to find out why this is the best solution for arthritic conditions.
A Clear View of the Joint
During the arthroscopic procedure, the surgeon has a clear view of the joint without having to physically open up the area. The camera in the arthroscope takes images of the inside of the joint and allows doctors to have a clear view of bone spurs, inflamed and diseased tissues, and everything else that may be going on inside. It shows everything in real-time on a video monitor during the surgery. Whereas traditional surgery would require a very large incision for the doctor to examine a joint, arthroscopy only needs very small incisions to carry out.
Greater Precision and Accuracy
The view a doctor has of the affected joint is magnified and can be viewed from different angles and perspectives due to the arthroscope. It allows the orthopedic surgeon to view small details that make a big difference in the surgery and, ultimately, the outcomes of the procedure.
In addition, the arthroscopic instruments used during the procedure are specially designed to be precise and accurate. These instruments are inserted through small incisions in the joint and allow the surgeon to manipulate the tissues and structures within the joint with greater control and precision. The surgeon can remove damaged tissue, smooth rough surfaces, and repair or remove damaged cartilage with greater accuracy, which results in better outcomes for the patient.
Low Risk of Complications
Due to the small incisions and tools used during the procedure, the risk of complications is reduced. Since not a lot of healthy tissue is disturbed, there is less bleeding, less post-operative swelling, and a lower risk of infection. The minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy allows patients to recover faster, more comfortably, and with manageable pain.
Studies have shown that patients who undergo arthroscopic procedures experience better long-term outcomes. If your orthopedic surgeon has recommended arthroscopic surgery for arthritis, don’t hesitate to discuss things with the doctor thoroughly, so you can make an informed decision about your health and minimize the risk of surprises.
Arthroscopic Surgery for Arthritis in West Orange, New Jersey
The skilled orthopedic surgeons at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey use arthroscopic surgery to treat orthopedic conditions such as arthritis, as well as sports and work-related injuries such as meniscal tears, ligament tears, and rotator cuff tears. Our doctors have specialized training in arthroscopic procedures. This is a tool we use to diagnose and treat our patients with great success.
To find out if you are a candidate for arthroscopic surgery, call our office today at (973) 989-0888 to schedule your consultation, or use our online appointment request form.
