It is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat problems within the joint. What is arthroscopic surgery? Unlike traditional open surgery, it is performed by inserting a small camera (arthroscope) into the joint. With this method, surgeons can visually examine the joint without making a large incision. They can intervene in problem areas.
Who Can Undergo Arthroscopic Surgery?
It is a minimally invasive treatment method applied to individuals with joint problems. This method is a type of closed surgery technique used to see and treat damage inside the joint. It is mostly used in large joints such as knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists and hips. However, deciding whether it is suitable for each patient depends on the evaluation to be made by the specialist.
- Problems such as meniscus injuries or ligament tears in the knee can be treated. In addition, cartilage damage in the knee can be repaired with this method.
- Tears, compressions or tendon problems in the shoulder joint can be treated. This method is also used to increase the stability of the shoulder joint.
- It is especially preferred in athletes for wrist and elbow injuries. This method provides an effective solution for seeing and treating damage within the joint.
- It is used to repair or clean damage to the joint, such as cartilage or meniscus tears. This allows patients to continue their daily lives comfortably.
- Joint inflammation or tendon impingement can also be treated. This surgery helps reduce inflammation and improve movement.
Arthroscopic surgery is recommended for patients who have not received results from other treatments or who have serious joint problems. The success rate of this method may vary depending on the patient's general health and the degree of damage to the joint.
What is Arthroscopic Surgery and How is it Performed?
Arthroscopic surgery is used to treat problems inside a joint. In this method, surgeons intervene inside the joint using a small camera (arthroscope) and special instruments instead of large incisions.
It is commonly applied to large joints such as knees, shoulders, wrists, hips, and elbows. Unlike traditional surgery, this method offers less pain and a faster recovery time.
It is usually performed under general anesthesia. However, in some cases, regional anesthesia may also be used. The surgeon makes small holes, a few millimeters in size, in the joint area. One of these holes is the area where the arthroscope will be inserted.
An arthroscope is a device designed as a tube with a light source and camera to visually examine the inside of a joint. Special instruments that the surgeon will use are inserted through other holes.
The arthroscope visualizes damage, tears, or inflammation inside the joint. The surgeon detects the problem in the joint through these images and intervenes. If the damage in the joint can be repaired, stitches are placed with small instruments or the damaged tissue is cleaned.
Arthroscopic surgery The biggest advantage is that smaller incisions are used, so patients feel less pain and recover faster. The risk of infection and hospital stay are also lower than with traditional surgery.
The Recovery Process After Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery, is a minimally invasive method. Therefore, the recovery process is usually faster and more comfortable. However, since each patient and surgical procedure is different, the recovery process may vary from person to person. There are a few important steps to consider during the recovery process.
It is important for the patient to rest for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Since it is usually done with small incisions, there may be swelling and slight bruising. The doctor will prescribe painkillers to control the pain. It is also recommended to apply a cold compress to reduce swelling in the joint.
During the first few days, patients should avoid normal activities and avoid excessive stress on the joint. Most patients can return to work and daily activities within 3-5 days, but strenuous physical activity should be avoided. Starting physical therapy can help speed up the healing process. Physical therapy is important for increasing joint mobility and regaining muscle strength.
The exact recovery process may vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the patient's general health. Generally, recovery from surgery can take 4-6 weeks. It may take longer to regain full normal function in the joint. A doctor's approval must be obtained for sports or strenuous physical activity.
After surgery, most patients experience minimal pain and a rapid recovery process, as is the answer to the question of what is arthroscopic surgery? What is arthroscopic surgery? It provides treatment of problems within the joint with a minimally invasive method. However, it is important to always follow the doctor's recommendations to prevent complications.
