Are you tired of living in pain and limited mobility due to joint issues? Arthroscopy surgery may be the solution you’ve been looking for! Arthroscopy surgery is a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the joints. It involves inserting a small, thin tube with a camera attached (known as an arthroscope) into the joint through a small incision. This allows the surgeon to see inside the joint and perform necessary procedures without making large incisions.

Benefits of Arthroscopy

One of the primary advantages of arthroscopy surgery is its minimally invasive nature. Unlike traditional open surgeries, which require large incisions and can lead to significant scarring, arthroscopic procedures only require small incisions that are typically less than half an inch long. This results in less post-operative pain, reduced risk of infection, faster recovery time and minimal scarring.

Another significant benefit of arthroscopy surgery is that it allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment of joint-related issues. The use of an arthroscope provides surgeons, like Dr Andre Olivier, with a clear view of the inside of the joint, enabling them to identify any problems accurately. This leads to more targeted and effective treatment as compared to traditional open surgeries where surgeons may not have a direct view of the affected area.

Furthermore, because arthroscopic procedures are less invasive, they also have shorter recovery times compared to open surgeries. Patients undergoing arthroscopy surgery can typically go home on the same day or within 24 hours after their procedure. They also experience less post-operative discomfort and are usually able to resume their daily activities sooner than those who undergo open surgeries.

Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy Surgery

Some of the common conditions that can be effectively treated with arthroscopy surgery are:

  1. Torn Cartilage: Arthroscopy surgery allows for precise repair or removal of torn cartilage through small incisions, resulting in quicker healing and reduced risk of complications.
  2. Ligament Injuries: Injuries such as tears or sprains in ligaments, commonly seen in sports-related activities, can be effectively treated with arthroscopy surgery.
  3. Bone Spurs: Overgrowth of bone around joints is referred to as bone spurs or osteophytes. These bony growths can cause pain and stiffness in joints such as shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, ankles, and feet. Arthroscopy allows for easy removal of these spurs through small incisions without damaging healthy tissues surrounding the joint.
  4. Loose Bodies: Sometimes fragments of bone or cartilage may break off from their original location within a joint causing symptoms like locking sensation or swelling accompanied by pain during movement. These loose bodies can easily be removed through arthroscopy, relieving the patient’s discomfort and improving joint function.
  5. Inflammation and Synovitis: Arthroscopy surgery allows for a thorough examination and removal of inflamed tissues, providing relief from symptoms.

In conclusion, arthroscopy surgery is a versatile procedure that can be used to diagnose and treat various orthopaedic conditions effectively. It offers patients a less invasive option with quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgeries. If you are experiencing any joint-related issues, please contact Dr Andre Olivier for a consultation to determine if arthroscopy surgery would be beneficial to you.

Contact Dr Olivier’s office situated at Vergelegen Mediclinic Somerset West at 021 850 6398 or admin@newlimb.co.za to make an appointment.

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