Arthroscopy Specialist
What is arthroscopy?
It would be no exaggeration to say that arthroscopy has revolutionized how orthopedic doctors diagnose and treat any number of musculoskeletal problems. Using only small incisions and special equipment, including a tiny camera that delivers a magnified, HD view of the surgical area, your surgeon is able to perform complex procedures without opening the skin.
Even with advanced imaging, including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, there are some problems that the surgeon can only see by taking a first-hand look inside your body. Rather than opening the area up wide, your doctor threads a pencil-sized, lighted camera into your joint. Once inside, the arthroscope enables the orthopedic surgeon to see the internal structures clearly, so he knows which areas to address in order to restore function.
Where can arthroscopy be used?
The doctors at ORTHOKnox rely on arthroscopy to diagnose and treat problems in your:
- Knees
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Wrists
- Ankles
In each of these areas, your doctor is able to use arthroscopic techniques to diagnose problems in your joint, clean out damaged tissue, make repairs, and even perform total joint replacements.
What are the benefits of arthroscopy?
The benefits of arthroscopy over traditional, open surgery are myriad due to the fact that your doctor only makes small incisions that are about 5 millimeters in length. This means that you have:
- Less risk of infection
- Less collateral damage to the surrounding tissue
- Shorter recovery time
- Less pain
- Less bleeding
Typically, your doctor can perform an arthroscopic procedure on an outpatient basis, which means you can return home after your surgery. Even if your procedure requires hospitalization, your stay is greatly shortened thanks to the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy.
Arthroscopic Surgery in Knoxville and Athens, TN
If you’re an athlete, arthroscopy is one of the most valuable tools in your sports medicine arsenal, because it allows you to get back to your active life more quickly and as strong as ever.
If you’d like to learn more about whether you’re a candidate for arthroscopy, call ORTHOKnox or fill out the online form to request an appointment.