PROCEDURES
ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY
WHAT IS ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY?
Arthroscopic surgery is a surgical technique in which small tube-like instruments are used to view and perform surgery. Instead of large incisions which are made for open surgery, this method involves only small puncture-like incisions to allow the tube-like instruments through. This tube-like instrument has a small fibre-optic camera at the end to allow your orthopaedic surgeon to view the internal structure of the particular area on a monitor while he operates.
If Dr Joubert finds that non-surgical methods have failed to enhance mobility and provide pain relief, he may advise surgery. With advancements in technology, many surgeries can be done using minimally invasive techniques known as arthroscopic surgery. If you are a candidate for arthroscopic surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the procedure with you and what you can expect for recovery, which in this case, luckily, will be very limited.
WHAT DOES TREATMENT OF BONE CANCER INVOLVE?
As Dr Joubert is thorough, looking at all options and future considerations, even if he finds the mass to be benign, the tumour may still need to be treated as it can spread or become cancerous (metastasize) at a later stage. Bone tumours also tend to weaken the bone, causing it to break (fracture) and thus treatment may involve non-surgical techniques to reduce the risk of fracture and disability. This treatment may involve your orthopaedic surgeon, oncologist and radiologist. In other cases Dr Joubert may suggest surgical excision of the tumour with the goal to not only rid you of the tumour but preserve functioning and mobility.
WHEN IS ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY USED?
This minimally invasive technique can be used for diagnosis as well as treatment of various orthopaedic conditions of various joints. For the shoulder, arthroscopic surgery may be done for the following conditions:
- To treat recurrent shoulder dislocations
- To remove bony spurs in the shoulder joint
- To remove inflamed tissue or loose cartilage in the shoulder
- To repair torn ligaments or tendons such as a rotator cuff or SLAP tear
- To treat overuse injuries, frozen shoulder or impingement in the shoulder such as tendonitis and bursitis
For the knee, arthroscopic surgery may be done in the following cases:
- To treat dislocation of the kneecap
- To remove bony spurs or torn cartilage in the knee joint caused by fractures
- To repair torn ligaments or tendons such as the anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments
- To treat inflammation in the knee such as a baker’s cyst or swollen synovium
- To treat a torn meniscus
WHAT WILL RECOVERY ENTAIL?
Usually after a major surgery on the shoulder or knee you can expect pain and swelling for the next few weeks, however, if arthroscopic surgery was done you will experience less pain and recovery will be quicker. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss rehabilitation as well as any lifestyle changes that might be required after your surgery. Depending on the reason for surgery, physiotherapy may be needed to get you back on your feet and back to your previous activities.
