Visualizing The Joint With Arthroscopy
Joints form where 2 bones meet to allow bending, twisting, and other types of movement. Sometimes, a joint condition or injury will prompt a doctor to recommend arthroscopy. For many patients, arthroscopy surgery sounds complicated. However, this is just a simple procedure to help visualize the joint. The surgeon will use a device called a scope, a long, narrow tool with a light and camera attachment. This tool allows the surgeon to view, diagnose, and even treat joint disease or dysfunction.
Arthroscopy advantages
The arthroscopy technique has been around for decades but has gained popularity in recent years as a minimally invasive option. Arthroscopy only requires 1-3 buttonhole incisions, depending on the procedure. The scope goes through the first incision, then operating tools go through the others. With arthroscopy, patients have more minor scars, less blood loss, fewer infections, and faster recovery. The surgery is also cheaper and quicker than open procedures, meaning most patients can leave the hospital on the same day. There are several types of arthroscopies, with these 3 commonly performed.
1. Knee arthroscopy
Many people are affected by knee injuries of varying severity every year. The knee is a primary joint responsible for movement and is prone to damage or wear and tear. Knee arthroscopy can diagnose and treat injuries that limit mobility. For instance, meniscus tears or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears can rely on arthroscopy to assess the damage and remove or replace the ligament. If there is damage to the cartilage caused by arthritis, knee arthroscopy can also help with a total knee replacement.
2. Shoulder arthroscopy
A shoulder injury, such as bursitis, a frozen shoulder, or a rotator cuff tear, severely limits the joint’s movement. Surgery can give the doctor more insight into the joint damage when medication and other conservative treatments fail. In addition, shoulder arthroscopy can help the surgeon remove, clean, and reattach damaged tendons.
3. Spine arthroscopy
The spine is often overlooked as a part of the body that needs arthroscopy. Yet, many joints within the spine are prone to disease. Spines contain facet joints that allow bending and other movements. Between the vertebrae are discs that can degenerate or move out of place. Some people also experience spinal injuries, arthritis, and several other conditions. Since the spine is a delicate structure, arthroscopy allows for safe entry and treatment. Some surgeons rely on arthroscopy to remove parts of damaged discs, install medical devices, remove facet joints, or fuse bones.
Are you a candidate?
An arthroscopy is an innovative form of surgery. However, the procedure is not for everyone. Patients with lost mobility, weakness, or severe pain may be good candidates. People who have tried and failed with conservative treatment may also benefit from arthroscopic surgery. Patients with more severe damage may require open surgery. Other factors like age, weight, and bone structure can limit arthroscopy. Overall, the procedure saves time, reduces infection, and improves the quality of life.
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“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
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“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
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“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
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“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
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“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
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“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“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.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“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 ”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“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.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
