Arthroscopy, a tool that can take live images from inside the joint, not only helps diagnose the problem in the joint being treated, but also allows the pathology to be corrected. The arthroscope is often used with special surgical instruments inserted through another incision. Operations such as cutting, revealing and burning can be performed with these tools.

 

In which joints can arthroscopy be performed?

Orthopedics and traumatologists use arthroscopy to see inside joints without making large incisions. The main areas where arthroscopy is used are:

• knee arthroscopy

• Shoulder arthroscopy

• Elbow arthroscopy

• Foot and ankle arthroscopy

• Hip arthroscopy

 

How is arthroscopy performed?

Arthroscopy, which was used only for diagnostic purposes until the 1980s, has become an undisputed treatment method today with the development of technology and experience. Arthroscopes with a diameter of 4 mm are used in large joints such as knees and shoulders, and 1 mm diameter is used in small joints.Arthroscopes with a diameter of .9-2.7 mm are used. . Although the procedure varies depending on the place to be operated on, the process generally proceeds in the same way. Arthroscopy can be performed under general, local or spinal anesthesia. Arthroscopic surgery may take between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours depending on the type of procedure performed.

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In this surgery, small incisions are made on the patient's skin. The arthroscope is inserted into the joint through the incision.  During surgery, light is transmitted through fiber optics at the tip of the arthroscope. In this way, the images taken from the joint are transferred to the monitor. To provide the image, the inside of the joint is inflated using a fluid, and this fluid is drained at the end of the procedure. During surgery, the structures within the joint are magnified 4-6 times to provide an image, thus allowing a detailed diagnosis. Since the camera can also image areas that are not easily accessible during open surgery, a complete diagnosis can be made. After the diagnostic examination is completed, the problems detected within the joint can be treated using mechanical, motorized or thermal energy devices inserted through small incisions.
After the diagnosis is made, the surgical procedure begins. After the procedure, surgical instruments are removed from the area. A drain is placed to remove the fluid accumulated inside and the incisions are closed with stitches.

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What are the advantages of arthroscopic surgery?

• The most important advantage of arthroscopy is that large incisions are made in the joint.It allows the entire joint to be evaluated and all surgical interventions to be performed within the joint by inserting half a centimeter small needles into the joint.

• The small size of the incisions contributes to the patient's cosmetic appearance and a faster healing process.

• In arthroscopic surgery, the patient feels less pain. Pain can be controlled with simple painkillers.

• Arthroscopic surgery is performed with minimal blood loss. There are no risks associated with blood transfusion.

• The risk of infection and limitation of movement after surgery is much lower.

• The duration of hospital stay and return to daily living activities and sports is much shorter. Your rehabilitation program can begin immediately after surgery. It is a great advantage, especially for athletes, to be able to return to sports early.

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What are the points to consider after arthroscopic surgery?

• Wounds and entrance holes should not be exposed to water until they heal.

• Post-procedure joint movements and joint loadStroke must be ensured.

• After the surgery, the patient may experience pain, swelling, bruising and stiffness. Painkillers are used to relieve them. Ice can be applied to reduce swelling.

• Vigorous activities may need to be avoided for the first few weeks.

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What are the Complications of Arthroscopic Surgery?

As with all surgical procedures, complications may occur in arthroscopic surgery. The main complications seen in arthroscopic surgery are:

• Edema

• Accumulation of blood in the joint

• Clot formation in the venous system

• Infection

• wound healing problems

• Vascular and nerve injuries

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For other questions or to be examined, contact Op. Dr. You can reach Sefa Kösem.