About Anthroscopic Surgery
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Q) What area of the body is arthroscopic surgery performed on?
A) Most commonly arthroscopic surgery is performed on the knees and shoulder, however other joints such as the hip, back, and wrist as also indicated for this type of procedure.
Q) How is arthroscopic surgery preformed?
A) During joint arthroscopy a camera is inserted into the joint through a small incision (about one centimeter). The arthroscopic surgery camera is attached to a fiber optic light source and shows a picture of the inside of the joint on a monitor. The surgeon uses water under pressure to "inflate" the joint allowing more maneuverability and to remove any debris. One or more other incisions are made to insert instruments that can treat the underlying problem.
Q) What are the benefits of arthroscopic surgery vs. an open procedure? Is there less pain with type of procedure?
A) Arthroscopic surgery is a valuable tool for all orthopaedic patients and is generally easier on the patient than "open" surgery. Most patients have their arthroscopic surgery as an outpatient procedure, meaning they go home the same day after the surgery. Another benefit of arthroscopic surgery, and when performed for the right indications, is less pain because there is less compromise to the surrounding tissues. However, for the first one to two days after surgery, pain is very well controlled with oral medications, such as Percocet or Vicodin, are usually adequate. Typically within one to two weeks after surgery, most patients find that their pain is greatly diminished and nothing stronger than aspirin or other Over the Counter Mediation is needed.
Q) Once I decide to have the surgery, how soon can it actually take place?
A) Once your insurance is approved and medical clearance is granted, the surgery can then be scheduled.
Q) What type of anesthesia is used for these Arthroscopic procedures?
A) The patient is sedated and comfortable throughout all procedures. A local anesthetic is administered at the surgical site and intravenous medications are used to make the patient comfortable.
Q) What are the possible complications?
A) Although uncommon, complications do occur occasionally during or following arthroscopic surgery. Infections are the most common complication and these can be prevented with pre-operative and post-operative antibiotics and gentle exercises. Other complications can include: phlebitis (blood clots of a vein), excessive swelling or bleeding, damage to blood vessels or nerves, and instrument breakage are the most common complications, but occur in far less than 1 percent of all arthroscopic procedures.
Q) Is bleeding around the incisions after surgery normal?
A) It is not unusual to have some mild bleeding through the small incision areas, and the area should be kept dry and covered. Should this happen and you are at home, you should reinforce the dressing with more sterile gauze. However, if bleeding persists, contact the office.
Q) Can I go home immediately after surgery?
A) Generally speaking, many patients can go home the same day as their procedure. It is important to have a healthy spouse or close family member for driving and at home to help them during the initial days after surgery. For those unable to depend on family or close friends, staying at the hospital for one to two days is occasionally an alternative.
Q) When can I return to regular exercise or my sport?
A) Most patients who undergo arthroscopic surgery will return to regular exercise and sports. However, the timing to return to activity varies greatly on the injury and specific procedure used to correct the problem (which may not be known until after the procedure). Additional factors include prior level of fitness, the rehabilitation process, and the type and level of activity which play an important role in determining return to play criteria. Talk with your physician about your specific injury and procedure to get the most accurate gauge. Keep in mind, that the physicians at Round Rock Orthopaedics & Rehab are trained to maximize your return to play status while keeping you long term safety in focus.
