Wrist Arthroscopy
Interested in learning more about how wrist arthroscopy can help you? Read on or contact our clinic
What is Hip Arthroscopy?
Wrist arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows surgeons to view the inside of the wrist joint and perform treatments using small incisions and specialized instruments. The process involves inserting an arthroscope, a tiny camera, to help the surgeon view the joint on a monitor in real time. This allows for the precise diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bones of the wrist. Wrist arthroscopy can treat a range of conditions while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue, leading to quicker healing and reduced postoperative pain.
Common Conditions Treated with Wrist Arthroscopy
Click on each title to learn more:
Ligament Injuries of the Wrist
Wrist ligaments can be injured due to trauma or overuse, leading to instability and pain. Arthroscopic surgery can repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments, restoring normal function and strength.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, often caused by repetitive motion. Endoscopy can help release the affected tendons and reduce pain.
Ganglion Cysts of the Wrist
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form on the wrist joint, often causing discomfort or pressure. Arthroscopy can be used to remove these cysts with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Kienböck’s Disease
This condition involves the collapse of the lunate bone in the wrist due to a lack of blood supply. Through arthroscopy, surgeons can help diagnose the condition and, in some cases, perform procedures to address bone deterioration.
TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) Tear
A tear in the TFCC, which stabilizes the wrist, can lead to pain and limited movement. Wrist arthroscopy allows for a precise repair of the TFCC, restoring stability and function to the wrist.
Osteoarthritis of the Wrist
In early wrist osteoarthritis, arthroscopy can be used to remove damaged cartilage, clean out the joint. In more advanced cases, this technique can help prepare the joint for other treatments, such as joint fusion or replacement.
Recovery After Wrist Arthroscopy
Recovery after wrist arthroscopy varies based on the complexity of the condition treated and the patient's individual health.
Immediate Postoperative Care
A splint or bandage will be applied to the wrist, and patients are usually advised to limit wrist movement for the first few days.
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is often recommended to restore strength and mobility. Most patients can return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, though high-impact activities may take longer to resume.
Long-Term Recovery
Full recovery can take 6-12 weeks depending on the nature of the procedure and the patient’s healing process.
Potential Risks and Complications
Although wrist arthroscopy is generally safe, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Some of the complications may include:
Infection at the incision site.
Nerve or blood vessel injury.
Stiffness or limited motion following surgery.
The need for additional surgery if initial treatment is ineffective.
Temporary numbness or discomfort.
However, with a skilled surgical team and proper aftercare, the risks are minimized, and most complications are temporary and can be managed effectively.
Benefits of Wrist Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive
The small incisions reduce tissue damage, leading to less pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery.
Faster Recovery
Since arthroscopy is less invasive than traditional surgery, most patients experience a quicker recovery and return to daily activities.
Reduced Risk of Complications
The procedure’s precision reduces the likelihood of complications such as infection and excessive bleeding.
Preservation of Healthy Tissue
Arthroscopy allows for more targeted treatment, minimizing damage to healthy wrist tissues.
Contact us today to book an appointment.
If you are experiencing wrist pain or have been diagnosed with a wrist condition, we can provide expert arthroscopic treatment to help you get back on your feet