Wrist Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is the use of a camera and specialized equipment through small incisions to evaluate, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint.
What to Expect
The Arthroscopic approach is mainly is utilized for
arthroscopy can be used for many conditions including carpal tunnel release,
TFCC ligament debridment or repair, removal of loose bodies, treatment of cartilage damage,
and diagnostic arthroscopy. Through the use of smaller incision, a faster and less painful recovery can be expected.
Arthroscopic surgery is done as an outpatient. Prior to surgery you
will be asked to see your primary care doctor for “medical clearance”.
They may check blood tests, EKG, and a chest x-ray in addition to other tests they find indicated.
Once surgery is scheduled, the hospital or surgery center will contact
you ahead of time to provide specific details about your procedure. Please
make sure to ask any questions you have and follow the instructions on when
to arrive and especially on when to stop eating or drinking prior to surgery.
On the day of surgery, the anesthesia staff will talk with you about anesthesia
options. You will be asleep for the procedure and often a regional nerve block is
recommended to numb the wrist and arm for pain relief.
Once in the operating room, you will be positioned so that a clear view of
the inside of your wrist can be obtained. A member of the surgical team will clean
the skin over the wrist with an antiseptic solution and a sterile drape will cover
your hand, wrist, and arm.
Through small incisions about the knee fluid flows through the arthroscope to keep
the view clear and control any bleeding. Images from the arthroscope are projected on the
video screen showing the inside of your wrist and any damage.
Small instruments are placed through 1-3 separate incisions and can be
used to shave, cut, grasp, pass suture, and tie knots. Anchor are often used
to hold stitches into bone.
At the completion of surgery the incisions are closed with stitches
and covered them with a large, soft bandage.
Postoperatively you will stay in the recovery room for 1 to 2 hours
before being discharged home. Nurses will monitor your responsiveness and
provide pain medication, if needed. You will need someone to drive you
home and stay with you for at least the first night.
Recovery from wrist arthroscopy depends on the procedure performed
but takes several weeks and a few months before full recovery.
Physical therapy will play a vital role after surgery in regaining
strength and motion.