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Arthroscopic Surgery in Atlanta, GAWhat is Arthroscopy? Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure performed to diagnose and treat joint problems. During an arthroscopic procedure, the orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Fowler, inserts a camera through a small incision. The camera, which contains a small lens and lighting system, transmits video to a monitor for an improved view of the joint. This helps the surgeon determine the amount of damage, as well as the nature of the condition, to properly repair musculoskeletal damage.
Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to see inside the joint without making a large incision. This provides surgical benefits that include, but are not limited to: less blood loss, minimal scarring, and an improved rate of recovery. In many cases, the doctor can repair orthopedic injuries by inserting surgical instruments through a second small incision. Regardless of the joint involved, arthroscopic surgery should only be pursued if more conservative methods of treatment, such as physical therapy, pain medication, alternative medicine, or corticosteroid injections into the joint, do not sufficiently alleviate the pain of the patient. Types of Arthroscopic SurgeryThe most common types of arthroscopic surgery include:
Knee ArthroscopyKnee Arthroscopy is one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed in America today. While not all causes of knee pain can be treated with arthroscopic knee surgery, many common sports injuries are treated effectively using this minimally invasive approach. The most common arthroscopic knee procedures include anterior cruciate ligament tears and meniscal repair.Shoulder ArthroscopyArthroscopic surgery is indicated for a number of orthopedic ailments of the shoulder. Athletes that perform repetitive overhead activities, such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, or track and field athletes are at risk of damaging the shoulder. The most common indications for shoulder arthroscopy include a torn or damaged rotator cuff, arthritis of the shoulder, and loose tissue that must be removed.Hip ArthroscopyHip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure often used to repair the acetabular labrum, a ring of cartilage lining the rim of the hip joint that provides support to the joint. Compared to traditional open joint surgery, benefits of hip arthroscopy include reduced scarring, accelerated post-operative rehabilitation, and faster return to regular activities.
Orthopedic surgeons often use arthroscopy to aid in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal injuries, as it is often more accurate than imaging tests, such as X-ray. Additionally, many problems associated with arthritis can be treated with this minimally invasive procedure.
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Arthroscopic Surgery Indications