Understanding Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy
An arthroscope is a small tube that contains a light source and a lens which can be inserted into a small opening in the skin. This small surgical camera allows a doctor to view shoulder and knee joints in a manner that is minimally invasive. Arthroscopy is useful for diagnosing disease or damage as well as performing reconstructive surgery.
Arthroscopy Surgery
Both shoulder and knee arthroscopy are conducted in similar manners. According to WebMD, it is also one of the most common procedures used on shoulders and knees. The procedure begins with a cleaning of the area, local or regional anesthesia and a small incision made near the joint. The doctor then uses the arthroscope to examine the surrounding ligaments and tendons to determine if a repair is necessary. If it is, one to three more small incisions is made in order to insert other surgical instruments that help remove tissue or bone. After the surgery is complete, fluid is drained from the area and the incisions are closed and bandaged.
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is useful for several issues including:
- Bone spurs: excess growths on the bone can cause inflammation around the rotator cuff
- Torn rotator cuff: this occurs when the tissue that connects muscle to bone around the shoulder joint is damaged
- Arthritis: this usually occurs at the end of the clavicle
- Damaged lining: the lining of the joint can become inflamed
- Torn ligaments: this can cause shoulder instability or damage to the bicep tendon
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is useful for several issues including:
- Kneecap misalignment: the cartilage under kneecap can deteriorate due to athletic activities or arthritis
- Damaged lining: inflammation can result from tears in the knee’s lining
- Torn ligaments: it is possible to damage the anterior cruciate or posterior cruciate ligament
- Broken cartilage: often referred to as “loose bodies,” small pieces of cartilage can be found in the joint
- Arthritis: arthroscopy is most effective in mild cases
- Meniscus tear: considered the shock absorbers between your thighbone and shinbone can be torn, usually as a result of contact sports
Recovering from Arthroscopy
The recovery is generally much milder than open surgery and results in fewer complications. Patients may be asked to ice the wound, reapply clean bandages or take pain medication. In some cases, the doctor may require crutches or a brace and abstain from certain activities for a short period of time.
If you are suffering from a knee or shoulder injury that may benefit from arthroscopic surgery, contact us today for a consultation with one of our orthopedic surgeons.
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“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
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“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
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“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
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