Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used both to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that affect joints. In the wrist, arthroscopy is used to treat ligaments, tendons, and other types of tissue that become damaged as a result of degeneration, trauma, or disease.
Wrist pain is a common problem with many possible causes. Sometimes it results from a sprain or fracture due to a fall or other injury, while in other cases it stems from conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. It is essential, therefore, to obtain the proper diagnosis in order to treat it correctly and effectively.
The Wrist Arthroscopy Procedure
During the wrist arthroscopy procedure, the wrist is stabilized by being placed on a separate operating table from the one the patient is on. Several tiny incisions are made in the wrist and a thin tube, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the treatment area. The arthroscope is connected to a camera that displays images of the wrist's internal structure on a computer screen, allowing the surgeon to precisely identify and target joint abnormalities.
Depending upon what is found, the surgeon, using special small surgical tools, may be able to treat the condition immediately. Reasons for wrist arthroscopy include removing scarred or inflamed tissue, repairing fractures, removing ganglion cysts, and repairing torn ligaments or tendons.
Recovery From Wrist Arthroscopy
After surgery, the wrist is elevated and bandaged for several days in order to reduce the risk of pain and swelling and promote proper healing. Patients who undergo arthroscopy experience significantly less bleeding and scarring, and have shorter recovery times than patients who undergo traditional open surgery.
FAQs
Can wrist arthroscopy be used for diagnosis as well as treatment?
Yes, wrist arthroscopy serves a dual purpose. It can be used diagnostically to investigate the cause of wrist pain or dysfunction when other methods such as MRI or CT scans do not provide a clear picture. Therapeutically, it allows surgeons to treat the identified issues, such as repairing torn ligaments or removing loose cartilage.
How long does the wrist arthroscopy procedure take?
The duration of wrist arthroscopy can depends on the complexity of the condition being treated. Typically, the procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. Patients can usually go home on the same day of the surgery.
What type of anesthesia is used for wrist arthroscopy?
Wrist arthroscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep during the procedure. In some cases, regional anesthesia, which numbs only the arm and hand, may be used. The type of anesthesia is determined based on the individual patient and the specific circumstances of the surgery.
When can I return to work after wrist arthroscopy?
The return to work depends on the patient's job type and the extent of the surgery. Office workers may return to work sooner than those involved in manual labor or high-impact sports, who may need several months before resuming their activities fully.
How effective is wrist arthroscopy?
Wrist arthroscopy is highly effective for many conditions. The success rate varies depending on the specific procedure performed but generally, patients experience significant pain relief and improved function post-surgery. Success also depends on following the prescribed rehabilitation program.
What should I do if I experience complications after wrist arthroscopy?
If complications such as excessive pain, swelling, redness, or discharge from the incision sites occur, it is important to contact your surgeon immediately. Postoperative infections and other complications may require prompt treatment.
Can wrist arthroscopy prevent arthritis?
Wrist arthroscopy itself does not prevent arthritis. However, by repairing damage within the wrist joint, it can alleviate symptoms and potentially delay the progression of joint deterioration that leads to arthritis.
Can I drive after wrist arthroscopy?
Patients are generally advised not to drive until they have regained full control and strength of their wrist. This typically means waiting until after the removal of the splint or cast, and when pain has sufficiently subsided. It's important to discuss this with your surgeon during follow-up visits.
Why choose a specialized practice for wrist arthroscopy?
Choosing a practice like Utah Orthopaedics, with its board-certified surgeons and specialized facilities, ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care. Their commitment to patient safety and the environment, as evidenced by their LEED Platinum Certification, speaks to their dedication to quality and sustainability.
Are there any risks associated with wrist arthroscopy?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, nerve damage, stiffness, and pain. However, the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy reduces these risks considerably.
