Advantages of Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is done to diagnose and treat a number of joint problems, most commonly those affecting the: Shoulder, Joint, Elbow, Ankle, Wrist, Hip. During this procedure, an instrument called arthroscope is inserted into your joint through a small cut in the skin.

The arthroscope is provided with a light source and a video camera attached to it. Images captured by the camera can be watched on a video monitor. These magnified images provide a clear picture to the physician who can analyse the problem inside the joint. Surgeons can even correct some of these problems with thin surgical instruments inserted through additional small incisions. The surgeon makes a few more incisions to allow entry of thin surgical instruments to insert a graft and repair damaged part. The procedure usually is performed in the outpatient setting and normally takes about two hours and is normally less painful than other major procedures.

SOME ADVANTAGES OF ARTHROSCOPY:

• Is normally less costly
• Recovery is relatively quick
• Less hospital stay
• Less postoperative pain and scarring