When you need surgical joint repair, arthroscopic surgery offers the chance to restore function and eliminate pain without the risks and recovery time of open surgical techniques. Arthroscopic surgery is a specialty for the team at EAMC-Lanier Ambulatory Surgery Center, LLC, in Valley, Alabama. To learn if this is the right option for your needs, book a visit online or over the phone at your earliest convenience.
The term surgery describes any medical technique that involves entering the body. Throughout most recorded history, surgery involved relatively large incisions into the skin and deeper layers of tissue to repair organs and other structures.
While some procedures still require traditional open surgery, arthroscopic surgery offers an exciting alternative. This approach requires only a few small incisions to access the surgical site.
The process relies on a piece of advanced medical equipment called an arthroscope. Arthroscopes have a narrow tube with a tiny camera and light on the outer edge. This device gathers high-resolution images and displays them on an external screen.
Arthroscopy allows your surgeon to gain a clear “view” of your internal tissues without having to access them directly through an incision.
Arthroscopic surgery is used both in diagnostic and treatment applications. Some of the procedures performed arthroscopically include:
Your provider performs arthroscopy within joints, including the knee, shoulder, hip, wrist, ankle, or elbow.
Compared with traditional open surgery techniques, arthroscopic procedures are very swift. You’ll receive medication to ensure you rest comfortably throughout the procedure, so there is no pain associated with arthroscopic surgery.
Once your procedure is complete, you’ll be taken to a recovery room to rest as the effects of the anesthesia wear off. The team will give you thorough post-procedure instructions before you head home. Following these instructions is a critical part of successful healing.
You may receive medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation and be advised to rest the area for a while to allow your body to begin healing. Ice packs can help with discomfort and swelling.
Depending on the type of surgery you’ve had, you might need to wear protective medical devices to support the treated joint. Braces, boots, slings, or temporary splints are all available.
It takes time for your body to heal after any type of joint surgery. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the joint and surrounding muscles in some cases.
If you’d like additional information about arthroscopic surgery, feel free to call the office to set up a visit. Online booking is also available.