Wrist Arthroscopy

Contents:

Medical Video: Highlight: Carpal Tunnel, Trigger Finger & Wrist Arthroscopy

Definition

What is wrist arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy (microsurgery) involves examining the inside of your wrist using a telescope that is inserted through a small incision made on your skin. Your surgeon will be able to deal with problems detected during the examination using special surgical instruments.

What are the benefits of arthroscopy?

The purpose of the procedure is to ascertain what is the problem being complained about, and for some people, the problem can be directly addressed during the procedure.

When do I need to undergo wrist arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is recommended for wrist problems, such as:

  • wrist pain: arthroscopy will help the surgeon investigate the cause of your pain
  • removal of the ganglion: a ganglion is a cyst containing clear liquid thick with thin walls that grow in the wrist joints. These cysts are benign, but are painful and will limit the motion of your wrist joints.
  • ligament tear: ligaments are connective tissue between bones. Ligaments will help hold the wrist steady and move the joints.
  • carpal tunnel release: carpal tunnel syndrome is swelling and irritation that occurs in the wrists and fingers, caused by pressure that often occurs in that part. With an arthroscopic procedure, the surgeon can widen the nerve pathway that is pinched to relieve pressure and pain.
  • wrist fracture: arthroscopy is done to remove bone fragments and restore the position of the bone to your wrist

Prevention & warning

Are there other alternatives to wrist arthroscopy?

Joint problems can be diagnosed using other medical tests, such as CT and CT Scan. However, you might need arthroscopy to deal with the problem.

 

 

Process

What should I do before wrist arthroscopy?

This procedure is done after you have been totally sedated. You will be given complete instructions on what to do before the procedure, including whether you can eat certain foods several hours before surgery. Generally, you will be asked to fast eating 6 hours before arthroscopy. You will be allowed to drink fluids, such as coffee, until a few hours before the procedure.

What is the wrist arthroscopy process?

The surgical procedure takes approximately 20 minutes.

The surgeon will make 2-4 small slices along your joints. Then, your doctor inserts a small telescope through one slice so he can examine the joints. The surgeon will also insert a surgical instrument through another slice if he feels that the problem that appears in your joints must be dealt with immediately.

What should I do after wrist arthroscopy?

You can go straight home after surgery.

Your physiotherapist may suggest that you do light exercise and a number of follow-up instructions to help speed up the recovery process. The recovery process can take up to 3 months until you can return to normal activities.

Regular exercise will help you restore your strength to carry out daily activities. Before you start, ask for advice from the team of doctors about sports that are right for you.

Most people in general will experience a significant increase, but it takes time for pain to decrease and the movement of the joints returns to normal. Signs of the disorder often return over time.

Complications

What complications might I experience?

General Complications

  • pain
  • bleeding
  • infection in the surgical area (wound)
  • mild scarring

Specific Complications

  • bleeding leaked into the joints
  • infection of the wrist joint
  • extreme pain, stiff arms, and loss of control of the complex regional pain syndrome
  • tendon damage

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Wrist Arthroscopy
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