Exploring Wrist Arthroscopy: Key Insights and Overview

Wrist arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, is performed to diagnose and treat various wrist issues. A wrist arthroscopy procedure is beneficial for individuals suffering from limited wrist mobility and wrist injuries that impact their daily lives.

An arthroscopic procedure uses a tiny camera called an arthroscope, inserted through small incisions, to precisely identify and address internal joint problems. In the sections that follow, we go into detail about wrist arthroscopy and what to expect during and after the procedure.

At Resurgens Orthopaedics, our expert physicians are always willing to answer any questions you may have about your condition or procedure. Schedule an appointment today to get the qualified, compassionate help you need and deserve.

• An In-Depth Look at Wrist Arthroscopy

• Why Would You Need a Wrist Arthroscopy Procedure?

• Preparing for a Wrist Arthroscopy

• The Wrist Arthroscopy Procedure Step-By-Step

• Understanding the Risks of Wrist Arthroscopy

• Navigating Wrist Arthroscopy Recovery

Using an arthroscope, along with small surgical instruments, physicians can examine and repair the intricate structures of the wrist joint - including ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and bones.

Wrist arthroscopy procedures provide direct visualization and repair capabilities for internal wrist problems, ensuring precise and efficient treatment for various wrist ailments. It primarily benefits patients who do not have major, complicated wrist issues, allowing them to experience less pain and enjoy a quicker recovery compared to open wrist surgery.

The wrist is a complex joint composed of eight carpal bones connected by ligaments. A skilled physician performing an arthroscopic procedure can navigate and treat the wrist without resorting to invasive measures.

Because of its complexity, the wrist is susceptible to several conditions like ganglion cysts, osteoarthritis, and ligament tears - wrist arthroscopy can address these conditions effectively. Arthroscopic surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is also common, and it can be used to correct problems that arise from injuries such as fractures, strains, and sprains.

Many wrist conditions can significantly impact your daily life, limiting your ability to work, play, and enjoy simple activities. A wrist arthroscopy procedure can help you regain proper wrist function without limitations.

Reasons why you should consider this procedure to diagnose and treat wrist concerns include:

• Chronic Pain: Arthroscopy can pinpoint the source of pain and enable targeted treatment for conditions like tendonitis, synovitis, and cartilage damage.

• Ganglion cysts: These fluid-filled sacs can cause discomfort and restrict movement. Arthroscopic techniques can be used to remove these cysts before more complications emerge.

• Ligament tears: Tears in the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) or other ligaments can lead to instability and pain. Arthroscopy facilitates repair and stabilization of these crucial structures.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: When the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed, it can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness. A procedure called carpal tunnel release, which uses arthroscopic techniques, can release the pressure on the nerve, alleviating symptoms and improving hand function.

• Wrist fractures: Arthroscopy can assist in removing bone fragments, realigning bones, and promoting healing.

• Osteoarthritis: Patients with arthritis can undergo an arthroscopic wrist procedure to remove inflamed tissues, create more joint space, and reduce pain.

Before undergoing wrist arthroscopy at Resurgens Orthopaedics, it is crucial to follow specific preparatory steps to ensure the best possible outcome. Here's a checklist to help you get ready for the procedure:

• Physical Examination: Undergo a thorough examination of the hand and wrist to assess the current condition.

• Medical History Review: Discuss past medical conditions or concerns with your physician.

• Diagnostic Tests: Complete tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or an arthrogram to locate the source of pain and assess wrist health.

• Pre-Surgery Instructions: Adhere to guidelines regarding when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.

• Medication Management: Take prescribed medications with a small sip of water as instructed, and follow your physician's recommendations to stop the use of any medications that could compromise your procedure.

• Arrival Time: Follow instructions on when to arrive at the hospital.

• Personal Hygiene: Bathe or shower before the surgery. Avoid lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish.

• Anesthesia Discussion: Discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used and the effects it may have on your body.

• Post-Operative Care Plan: Understand your post-operative care, including keeping the wrist elevated, maintaining bandage hygiene, applying ice for swelling, and following prescribed exercises for recovery.

By carefully following these steps, you will do your part to support a successful procedure and a smooth wrist arthroscopy recovery.

Throughout this procedure, the surgeon is guided by real-time images from the arthroscope, ensuring precision and effectiveness in treating the wrist condition. Wrist arthroscopy involves a series of precise steps to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment:

1. Preparation: The patient lies flat, with the arm secured to an arm table and the wrist suspended vertically. The arm is cleansed and sterilized, and a tourniquet is applied.

2. Anesthesia Administration: General anesthesia is usually given, or sometimes a regional nerve block to numb the arm.

3. Joint Injection: A needle is used to inject fluid into the joint, enlarging the space within the wrist joint.

4. Incisions and Camera Insertion: Several small incisions are made near the wrist joint, through which the arthroscopic camera is inserted.

5. Joint Inspection: Irrigation fluid is pumped through the joint for clarity. The surgeon inspects ligaments, cartilage, and bones for damage using the arthroscope's camera and light.

6. Repair and Treatment: The surgeon will use specialized instruments to treat any damage, including removing or repairing cartilage and ligaments, or shortening bones.

7. Closure and Pain Management: Incisions are closed with sutures or tape, and local anesthetic is applied for pain relief. The wrist is bandaged and often splinted.

8. Recovery: Post-operative pain relievers are administered, and the patient is typically allowed to go home the same day.

While wrist arthroscopy at Resurgens Orthopaedics is generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential risks associated with this procedure. These include:

• Infection: A common risk with any procedure, the infection could occur at the incision site.

• Nerve Injuries: Potential damage to nerves during the procedure can lead to numbness, weakness, or pain.

• Excessive Swelling and Bleeding: Post-surgery, some patients may experience significant swelling and bleeding.

• Scarring: Scar tissue formation at the incision sites is possible.

• Tendon Tearing: There is a slight risk of inadvertently damaging tendons during the procedure.

• Failure to Relieve Symptoms: In some cases, the procedure may not effectively alleviate the intended symptoms.

• Weakness of the Wrist: Post-procedure, patients may experience some wrist weakness.

Success rates for wrist arthroscopy are generally high, with the procedure renowned for its safety and effectiveness in diagnosing and treating various wrist conditions. According to a multicenter study encompassing over 10,000 wrist arthroscopies, the incidence of complications stands at 5.98%, with 5.07 % being serious and 0.91% being minor including nerve lesions and procedural failures. Your Resurgens Orthopaedics physician will discuss these potential complications with you in detail before your procedure to ensure you are fully informed.

The recovery time for wrist arthroscopy is typically faster and less painful than traditional open surgery. Key aspects of the recovery process include:

• Immediate Post-Procedure Care: For the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure, the wrist should be kept elevated above the heart level to help reduce swelling and pain. The application of a cold pack can also be beneficial.

• Bandage Maintenance: It's crucial to keep the surgical bandage clean and dry. Follow your physician's instructions for dressing changes.

• Pain Management: Post-procedure pain is usually minimal, and analgesic medications (like aspirin or ibuprofen) can effectively alleviate discomfort.

• Home Recovery: Patients are generally able to return home on the same day of the procedure. Ensure you have someone to drive you home.

• Splint Usage: A splint may be required for 1 to 2 weeks or more to aid in stabilizing the wrist during the healing phase.

• Physical Therapy: Engage in recommended exercises to maintain motion and rebuild strength in the wrist.

Our team is committed to providing personalized care and will guide you through every step of your wrist arthroscopy journey, from initial consultation to full recovery.

Don't let wrist pain or restricted mobility limit your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with the experts at Resurgens Orthopaedics for a comprehensive evaluation and consider wrist arthroscopy as a potential solution.