Wrist Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique in which an orthopedic surgeon makes very small incisions over the wrist joint, allowing them to enter the joint with a camera and small instruments. The procedure allows your doctor to diagnose and treat wrist problems.
During arthroscopy, your surgeon inserts a tiny camera and light source into your wrist. This equipment allows images of inside your wrist to be displayed onto a screen, allowing your surgeon to see inside the joint. Your surgeon also uses small tools to repair damaged ligaments, tendons or bones through those small incisions.
Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons at Summit Orthopedics use wrist arthroscopy to diagnose and treat several conditions. If you need wrist surgery and are in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, our hand and wrist surgeons are here to help address your problem and get you back to regular functioning as quickly and safely as possible.
What Conditions Does Wrist Arthroscopy Treat?
Wrist arthroscopy can be an effective treatment for several conditions that affect your wrist and arm, including:
- Arthritis of the hands and wrists
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Ganglion cysts
- Hand and wrist fractures
- Ligament tears
Wrist arthroscopy also diagnoses wrist conditions and can help your doctor determine the cause of any pain, swelling or other discomfort in your wrist.
What to Expect With Wrist Surgery at Summit Orthopedics
Wrist arthroscopy surgery usually lasts about one hour and can be a same-day procedure. During the procedure, your surgeon makes two or more small incisions in your wrist. Then, the surgeon inserts a small camera that lets them see the injury and confirm your diagnosis. Your surgeon then inserts additional tools to repair any damage.
Here’s what else to expect:
Before Surgery
When you are ready to have surgery, you will need to talk with your surgeon’s patient coordinator to schedule an appropriate time. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork, talk to you about a required preoperative physical and help you with any questions you may have.
After Surgery
In-hospital recovery: Immediately after surgery, a nurse will monitor you in a separate recovery room. Your healthcare team may also bandage and immobilize your wrist. After you are awake and alert, a nurse will help you get ready to go home. Before surgery, you must arrange for someone to receive your after-surgery instructions and drive you home, as sedation will make driving unsafe.
At home: While at home, you should rest, ice and elevate the wrist to prevent excessive swelling and pain. Each surgery requires different periods of immobilization, dressing changes and wound care. Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of your postoperative recovery with you before surgery. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your surgeon’s office for clarification.
Additionally, you will have to fill and pick up prescribed medication to help with postsurgical pain. You should designate a family member to do this for you.
Your surgeon’s patient coordinator will schedule a postoperative visit prior to surgery, during which you will discuss physical therapy and further activity guidelines.
Risks of Wrist Arthroscopy
Like all surgeries, wrist arthroscopy has some risks, including:
- Damage to nerves and tendons
- Infection
- Swelling
However, these risks are generally low. You can help reduce these risks by following your doctor’s postsurgical instructions and staying in touch with them about any concerns or complications after surgery.
Move Forward With Wrist Surgery
If you have a condition that causes pain, discomfort or limited mobility in your hand, wrist arthroscopy at Summit can help. Contact us to get started with an evaluation, diagnosis and a recommended treatment plan.
Find your Summit Orthopedics hand and wrist expert, request an appointment or call us at (651) 968-5201 to schedule a consultation.
