Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various wrist conditions. This advanced technique allows surgeons to access the wrist joint through small incisions, reducing trauma and accelerating recovery. Here’s everything you need to know about wrist arthroscopy:

What is Wrist Arthroscopy? Wrist arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the wrist joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to visualize the internal structures of the wrist, including the bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. By examining the joint in real-time, the surgeon can diagnose and treat a wide range of wrist conditions with precision.

Conditions Treated with Wrist Arthroscopy: Wrist arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat various wrist conditions, including:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Wrist fractures
• Wrist arthritis
• Ganglion cysts
• Ligament injuries (such as TFCC tears)
• Cartilage damage (such as chondral defects)
• Wrist instability

Procedure: During wrist arthroscopy, the surgeon makes small incisions around the wrist joint and inserts the arthroscope and specialized surgical instruments. The camera provides a clear view of the internal structures, allowing the surgeon to perform necessary repairs or treatments. Depending on the condition, the surgeon may remove damaged tissue, repair ligaments or tendons, or remove cysts or bone spurs. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.

Benefits of Wrist Arthroscopy: Wrist arthroscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including:

• Minimally invasive: Small incisions result in less tissue damage and scarring.
• Faster recovery: Patients typically experience less pain and swelling and can resume normal activities sooner.
• Accurate diagnosis: The arthroscope provides a clear view of the wrist joint, allowing for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
• Reduced risk of complications: Minimally invasive techniques are associated with lower risks of infection and other complications compared to open surgery.

Recovery: After wrist arthroscopy, patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve strength and range of motion in the wrist. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days and return to full activity within a few weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing.

Conclusion: Wrist arthroscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of various wrist conditions. With its minimally invasive approach and high success rates, it offers patients a faster recovery and improved outcomes compared to traditional open surgery. If you’re experiencing wrist pain or dysfunction, talk to your doctor to see if wrist arthroscopy is right for you.