Minimally Invasive Surgery for Joint Problems

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive option for diagnosing, monitoring and treating joint problems. If you want a quicker recovery after joint surgery, you need to learn about this option.

Open Surgery vs. Arthroscopy

During traditional open surgery, surgeons make a large incision to directly view joints, diagnose problems, and perform corrective procedures.

Arthroscopy, an option for many joint surgeries, allows surgeons to operate through very small incisions instead. One keyhole-size incision accommodates a special video camera called an arthroscope. This tool displays the joint on a video screen. The surgeon may make additional small incisions for specialized surgical tools.

Benefits of Arthroscopy

Because it is minimally invasive, arthroscopy holds many benefits over traditional open procedures. The technique causes less surgical trauma resulting in:

• Less post-operative pain
• Fewer medical complications
• A shorter recovery period
• Financial savings due to less time in the hospital and an earlier return to work
• Less scarring for a better cosmetic appearance

Arthroscopic Procedures Available at Deaconess

Our surgeons apply the advanced arthroscopy technique whenever it is possible and appropriate for our patients. We routinely perform arthroscopic surgery on knees, shoulders and ankles.