Arthroscopy in Wake County, NC
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of joint and ligament conditions. During this procedure, an orthopedic surgeon inserts a small camera (arthroscope) through a tiny incision, allowing them to view the affected joint on a monitor. Once the issue is identified, the surgeon can use specialized instruments to perform specific repairs or remove damaged tissue. Unlike traditional open surgery, arthroscopy only requires a small incision, resulting in less tissue disruption and a faster recovery. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, this advanced procedure is used to treat a variety of joint conditions in the knees, shoulders, hips, and more. Don’t let pain continue to keep you from doing what you love – contact Raleigh Orthopaedic for help overcoming joint pain via a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure today.
Which Orthopedic Procedures Can Be Performed Arthroscopically?
The versatility of arthroscopy lies in its ability to address a wide range of joint conditions with precision and accuracy. Our specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic issues affecting various parts of the body, many of which can be treated arthroscopically. This common technique can be used for:
- Repairing torn ligaments (e.g., ACL, PCL).
- Treating cartilage damage.
- Removing loose bone or cartilage fragments.
- Addressing rotator cuff injuries or shoulder impingement.
- Treating joint stiffness or instability in the hip, ankle, and wrist.
- Removing inflamed joint linings.
- Treating labral tears in the shoulder or hips.
What are the Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopy provides significant advantages over traditional open surgery, which makes it a preferred option for many patients. These benefits allow patients to return to daily activities and sports more quickly, which will also result in a reduced impact on their overall health and routine. Our surgeons at Raleigh Orthopaedic are proud to be trained in the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery, from arthroscopic methods to the latest joint replacement techniques. Some key advantages of arthroscopy include:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Faster recovery time
- Reduced post-operative pain and swelling
- Lower risk of complications
- Shorter procedure duration and less anesthesia
Arthroscopic Surgery for Orthopedic Conditions at Raleigh Orthopaedic
Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury or chronic pain, Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you achieve long-term relief from your joint condition or injury. As a leading orthopedic practice in Wake County, Raleigh Orthopaedic provides expert care for those considering arthroscopic procedures and will provide you with a treatment plan that takes your unique needs and goals into account.
Preparation plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth surgical experience. Patients will meet with their surgeon to discuss their medical history and treatment goals, along with finalizing the surgical plan and addressing any questions the patient may have. Pre-operative instructions and recommendations will also be made. Our team will ensure that you are fully prepared for your procedure, helping to reduce pre-operative stress and promote a positive outcome. Specific pre-operative instructions may include:
- Adjusting medications, such as pausing blood thinners.
- Fasting the night before the procedure.
- Making lifestyle and home adjustments, such as removing trip hazards and arranging for someone to help you with daily tasks post-surgery.
- Discussing recovery expectations and follow-up care.
Arthroscopic surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia, depending on the procedure. The surgeon makes small incisions near the joint and inserts an arthroscope – a tiny camera that provides real-time images of the joint on a monitor. Using specialized tools, the surgeon can then perform repairs or remove damaged tissue, such as cartilage or bone fragments. Advancements in surgical technologies over the years have allowed surgeons to treat a wide range of joint conditions and injuries via arthroscopic techniques, without the need for major surgery. Arthroscopic surgery typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, with its minimally invasive nature resulting in a faster recovery time.
Recovery from arthroscopy is typically quicker and less painful than recovery from traditional or open surgery. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis, with patients returning home the same day. Your care team at Raleigh Orthopaedic will provide detailed post-operative instructions for you to follow. Patients can usually resume light activities within a few days and can return to their normal routines within two to six weeks, depending on the procedure that was performed and the extent of the orthopedic injury or condition. Post-operative steps to promote a successful recovery include:
- Pain management via prescribed medications.
- Early physical therapy to restore mobility and strength.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
How Long Does Recovery from an Arthroscopic Procedure Take?
Recovery times vary based on the specific area treated and the complexity of the procedure. To support a successful and efficient recovery process, it is essential that you follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and be open with your care team about any questions or concerns you have. In general, patients can expect the following recovery schedule.
- Return to light activities in 1-3 days.
- Return to normal routines in 2-6 weeks.
- Return to sports or high-impact activities based on individual progress.
Orthopedic Surgeons at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our fellowship-trained surgeons are leaders in arthroscopic procedures, combining expertise with personalized care to deliver exceptional results for all patients. From your initial consultation to post-operative recovery, our team will work closely with you to restore your physical function and enhance your quality of life. Our goal is to ensure that when you’ve finished your journey with Raleigh Orthopaedic, you’ll feel stronger, more confident, and ready to enjoy life to the fullest.
Orthopedic Surgery and Care in NC at Raleigh Orthopaedic
As Wake County’s premier orthopedic practice, Raleigh Orthopaedic is proud to serve our community with exceptional care, offering advanced treatments and personalized solutions for a wide range of joint and ligament conditions. Our team uses the latest surgical technology to deliver the exceptional care our patients deserve. This includes the use of arthroscopic techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of joint problems. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we are committed to providing personalized solutions that help you regain mobility and get back to doing what you love. If you’re facing joint pain, we encourage you to call your nearest Raleigh Orthopaedic location or schedule an appointment online today. We look forward to working with you!