Arthroscopy Procedures

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows for the diagnosis and treatment of various joint conditions. It involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint through a small incision. This provides the surgeon with a clear view of the joint's interior, allowing them to diagnose and treat the problem. Here are some common arthroscopic procedures for knee, shoulder, and other joints:

Knee Arthroscopy:

• ACL Reconstruction: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may be reconstructed using graft tissue to restore stability and function to the knee after ACL injury or tear.
• PCL Reconstruction: The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can be reconstructed to address instability and restore normal knee function.
• Meniscus Repair: Tears in the meniscus, which are the C-shaped cartilage pads in the knee, can be repaired using sutures or other fixation techniques.
• Meniscectomy: In cases where the meniscus tear is irreparable, the damaged portion of the meniscus may be removed.

Shoulder Arthroscopy:

• SLAP Repair: A SLAP (superior labrum anterior to posterior) tear occurs in the rim of the shoulder socket. Arthroscopy can be used to repair the torn labrum.
• Subacromial Decompression: This procedure involves removing bone spurs or inflamed tissue that may be causing shoulder impingement, relieving pain and improving range of motion.
• Bankart's Repair: Bankart's lesion refers to a tear in the labrum that causes shoulder instability. Arthroscopic surgery can be performed to reattach and stabilize the labrum.
• Acromioplasty: This procedure involves removing a small portion of the acromion (a part of the shoulder blade) to create more space and reduce friction in the shoulder joint.

Other Arthroscopic Procedures:

• Latarjet Procedure: This surgery is performed to treat shoulder instability caused by recurrent shoulder dislocations. It involves transferring a piece of bone from the shoulder blade to the front of the shoulder socket to provide stability.
• Hip Arthroscopy: It is used to diagnose and treat various hip conditions, such as labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and hip joint damage.
• Ankle Arthroscopy: It allows for the examination and treatment of ankle conditions, including cartilage damage, loose bodies, and ligament injuries.

Benefits of Arthroscopy:

• Minimally Invasive: Arthroscopy involves small incisions and minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, resulting in less pain, faster recovery, and reduced scarring.
• Accurate Diagnosis: The arthroscope provides a clear view of the joint, allowing for precise diagnosis of the problem.
• Targeted Treatment: During arthroscopy, surgical instruments can be inserted through additional small incisions to address the specific joint condition.