Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy - is a modern, minimally invasive (low-trauma) surgical orthopedic procedure employed for the diagnosis and treatment of intra-articular pathologies and injuries.
Arthroscopy of the following joints
- Knee Joint Arthroscopy
- Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Hip Arthroscopy
- Elbow Joint Arthroscopy
- Ankle Arthroscopy
Essence and Advantages of Arthroscopy
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional "open" surgery, arthroscopy does not require a large incision. Access to the joint is achieved through several micro-incisions or portals (typically 2-3).
- Arthroscope Use: An arthroscope - a thin instrument equipped with a camera and optical system (a type of endoscope) - is inserted into the joint through one of the portals.
- Visualization: The arthroscope transmits a magnified image of the joint's internal structures to a monitor (magnification can reach 40-60 times), allowing the orthopedic surgeon to meticulously inspect cartilage, ligaments, menisci, and other structures.
- Surgical Manipulation: Specialized, delicate instruments are introduced through other micro-incisions, enabling the surgeon to perform the necessary therapeutic procedures.
- Advantages: Low surgical trauma minimizes the risk of complications, accelerates healing, shortens the duration of postoperative rehabilitation, and results in virtually inconspicuous scars.
Applications of Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is utilized for both diagnosis and treatment of various joint pathologies. It is most commonly performed on the knee and shoulder joints but is also applied for the hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist joints.
Indications for Arthroscopy (Diagnostic and Therapeutic Purposes):
Diagnosis:
- Clarification of diagnosis in cases of pain, swelling, or joint instability when other imaging modalities are inconclusive.
- Assessment of the condition of cartilage, ligaments, and other intra-articular structures.
- Identification of masses and cysts.
Treatment (Examples of Procedures):
- Meniscus Injuries: Partial meniscectomy or meniscal repair.
- Reconstruction (Plasty) of damaged cruciate and other ligaments.
- Removal of foreign bodies (bone or cartilage fragments) from the joint cavity.
- Cartilage Restoration in osteoarthritis (partial procedures).
- Removal of adhesions and hypertrophic folds.
- Joint lavage (washing out) in inflammatory processes (synovitis, arthritis).
Arthroscopy represents a high-technology method and the gold standard in modern orthopedics. It enables highly accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of intra-articular pathologies while minimizing tissue damage, ensuring patients experience rapid recovery and a return to full activity.
