Minimally Invasive Hand and Wrist Surgery: How Keyhole Techniques Help You Heal

Keyhole (Arthroscopic) Surgery for Hand, Wrist, and Elbow in Malleshwaram

Minimally invasive keyhole surgery, or arthroscopy, has transformed the treatment of various hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. At Sapiens Clinic in Malleshwaram, we specialize in arthroscopic procedures that offer precise diagnosis and effective treatment with minimal discomfort and faster recovery times.

What Is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that involves inserting a small camera, known as an arthroscope, into the joint through tiny incisions. This allows orthopedic surgeons to view the internal structures of the joint on a monitor and perform necessary repairs using specialized instruments. The procedure is commonly used for joints such as the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip and wrist.

Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery is effective in diagnosing and treating a variety of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and elbow, including :

• Wrist Conditions :
  • Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) tears
  • Scapholunate and lunotriquetral ligament injuries
  • Ganglion cyst removal
  • Wrist arthritis
  • Distal radius fractures
• Elbow Conditions :
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Loose bodies within the joint
  • Elbow arthritis
  • Synovitis
  • Elbow stiffness
• Hand Conditions :
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Trigger finger
  • Dupuytren’s contracture
  • Ligament injuries
  • Arthritis-related deformities

Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery

Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers several advantages :

• Smaller incisions leading to reduced scarring
• Less postoperative pain and swelling
• Shorter hospital stays and faster recovery
• Lower risk of infection
• Improved joint visualization for accurate diagnosis and treatment

The Arthroscopic Procedure

The procedure typically involves :

1. Anesthesia: Administered based on the joint involved and patient preference.
2. Incision: Small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments.
3. Diagnosis and Treatment: The surgeon examines the joint and performs necessary repairs.
4. Closure: Instruments are removed, and incisions are closed with sutures or sterile strips.

Most arthroscopic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Postoperative care includes :

• Pain Management: Medications to control discomfort.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore strength and mobility.
• Follow-Up Visits: Monitoring healing progress and addressing any concerns.

Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure and individual patient factors but generally are shorter compared to open surgery.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic surgery offers a minimally invasive solution for various hand, wrist, and elbow conditions, leading to quicker recovery and improved outcomes. If you’re experiencing joint issues, consult Dr. Darshan Kumar A. Jain, Orthopedic Specialist at Sapiens Clinic, Malleshwaram, for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

FAQs

1. Is arthroscopic surgery suitable for all joint problems?

While arthroscopy is effective for many conditions, some complex issues may require open surgery. A thorough evaluation will determine the best approach.

2. How long does the procedure take?

Most arthroscopic surgeries are completed within 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity.

3. Will I need physical therapy after surgery?

Yes, physical therapy is often recommended to aid in recovery and restore joint function.

4. Are there risks associated with arthroscopy?

As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, bleeding and nerve damage, though these are relatively rare.

5. When can I return to normal activities?

Recovery times vary, but many patients resume daily activities within a few weeks, with full recovery taking a few months.