Are you suffering from joint pain that’s making it hard to enjoy your favorite activities? Have conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication not provided enough relief? You might be a candidate for arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that can help get you back to doing the things you love.
What is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a modern surgical technique that allows our skilled orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems with minimal disruption to your body. Instead of making large incisions, we use a tiny camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted through a small incision. This camera provides a clear view of the inside of your joint on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to precisely guide small surgical instruments to repair the damaged area.
What Conditions Can Arthroscopic Surgery Treat?
Arthroscopic surgery can be used to address a wide range of joint problems, including:
- Torn meniscus in the knee
- Rotator cuff tears in the shoulder
- Labral tears in the hip or shoulder
- Cartilage damage
- Ligament injuries (in some cases)
- Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage
Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery
Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopic surgery offers several advantages:
- Smaller incisions: This means less pain, scarring, and a lower risk of infection.
- Faster recovery time: Most patients can go home the same day and return to their normal activities sooner.
- Less blood loss: The minimally invasive nature of the procedure reduces the need for blood transfusions.
- Improved accuracy: The arthroscope provides a magnified view of the joint, allowing for greater precision during surgery.
What to Expect During and After Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or a regional nerve block. The length of the procedure depends on the complexity of the problem being treated. After surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area before being discharged home. Most patients experience minimal pain and can manage it with over-the-counter pain medication.
Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to care for your incisions and manage your recovery. Physical therapy may be recommended to help you regain strength and range of motion in the affected joint.
Is Arthroscopic Surgery Right for You?
The decision to undergo surgery is a personal one. If you’re struggling with joint pain and conservative treatments haven’t worked, arthroscopic surgery may be a viable option. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons at Metairie Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s right for you.
Don’t Let Joint Pain Hold You Back
- At Metairie Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we’re committed to helping you get back to living your active life. If you’re ready to explore your options for arthroscopic surgery, we encourage you to contact us today. Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way.