Arthroscopic Surgery Introduction

Arthroscopic Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used for the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting joints. During Arthroscopic Surgery a physician uses an arthroscope, a small tube shaped instrument, which is inserted into the joint area through very small incisions (as tiny as ¼ inch) to perform the necessary treatment. The arthroscope is often used in conjunction with other tools that are inserted through another incision to perform the necessary treatment. Arthroscopic surgery procedures are usually performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility by an orthopedic surgeon. The type of anesthesia used (local, spinal, or general) varies, as does the length of the procedure; both depend on the joint that will be operated on, the type and extent of the suspected joint injury, and/or the complexity of the anticipated repair. A procedure done arthroscopically instead of by traditional surgical techniques, usually causes less tissue trauma, results in less pain, and may promote a quicker recovery. Alternatives to arthroscopic surgery usually include medications (ex. anti-inflammatory), therapy or lifestyle changes. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous saline therapy is a relatively new alternative to surgery. Ask your physician if this procedure is appropriate for your condition.

Arthroscopic Surgery Patient Preparation

A complete physical examination will be performed along with other diagnostic tests. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you are pregnant (or think you might be pregnant) or if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention, and, finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for the surgery; be sure to read and follow those instructions. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. Arrangements should be made for transportation after the surgery is complete. If you are given a prescription for pain medication, have it filled prior to surgery.

What To Expect During And After Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis and rarely takes more than an hour. Sedatives and painkillers will be administered either intravenously (IV) or applied locally and your vital signs (ex. heart rate, blood pressure, breathing) will be monitored as well. The area around the surgical site may be shaved and the surgical site will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. The physician will make one or more incisions in the joint area and will perform the surgery using the arthroscope and other surgical instruments. The incisions will be closed with stitches or adhesive strips. A sterile bandage/dressing will be applied.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. The circulation and sensation of the affected extremity will be monitored. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will most often be discharged to go home. Otherwise you will stay in the hospital one or two days. Before being discharged, you will be given instructions about care for your incisions, limits on activities and what you should do to aid your recovery. Notify your physician to report any of the following: fever; redness, swelling, bleeding, or other drainage from the incision site; increased pain around the incision site; or numbness and/or tingling in the affected extremity.