Name of the Procedure:

Unlisted Procedure, Arthroscopy
Common Names: Diagnostic Arthroscopy, Surgical Arthroscopy

Summary

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions affecting joints. It involves the use of a small camera, called an arthroscope, which is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision. The images from the camera are displayed on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint without making a large incision.

Purpose

Arthroscopy is primarily used to diagnose joint issues such as injuries to ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissue, as well as joint abnormalities. It can also be used to treat conditions like torn cartilage, repair ligaments, and remove inflamed joint lining. The goals are to accurately diagnose the issue, alleviate pain, improve joint function, and potentially avoid more invasive surgery.

Indications

• Persistent joint pain
• Swelling and inflammation in a joint
• Joint stiffness and limited range of motion
• Unexplained joint injuries
• Diagnosing conditions like arthritis or torn ligaments

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medication schedules, especially blood thinners.
• Physical examination and imaging tests (e.g., MRI or X-rays).

Procedure Description

1. The patient is either sedated or given general anesthesia.
2. Small incisions are made around the affected joint.
3. A sterile fluid is introduced into the joint to expand it for better visualization.
4. The arthroscope is inserted into one of the incisions, and the images are viewed on a monitor.
5. If necessary, surgical tools are inserted through other incisions to perform repairs.
6. The surgical site is irrigated again to clear out any debris.
7. The incisions are closed with sutures or small bandages.

Duration

Typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center equipped with arthroscopic facilities.

Personnel

• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Surgical Nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Damage to the nerves or blood vessels
• Swelling and stiffness
• Occasionally, the need for further surgery

Benefits

• Minimally invasive with smaller incisions and quicker recovery.
• Accurate diagnosis of joint issues.
• Can be both diagnostic and therapeutic.
• Reduced post-operative pain compared to open surgery.
• Shorter hospital stay and faster return to daily activities.

Recovery

• Outpatient basis; patients can usually go home the same day.
• Pain and anti-inflammatory medications.
• Rest and limited activity for a few days.
• Physical therapy may be required.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Open Joint Surgery: More invasive, longer recovery, but sometimes necessary.
• Non-Surgical Options: Physical therapy, medications, and injections for pain management.
• Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans for diagnosis if surgery is not immediately needed.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during the procedure due to the anesthesia.
• Post-procedure soreness or pain around the incision sites.
• Swelling and stiffness are common; managed with rest and ice packs.
• Gradual improvement in joint function and pain relief over the following weeks.