Fiber optic technology now allows examination of the joint through miniature “button hole” sized incisions.
What is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a much less invasive procedure than more traditional techniques. During an arthroscopic procedure, our orthopedic surgeons make a small incision and insert pen sized instrument inside the patient’s skin. This device is equipped with a camera system that allows our surgeon to see what’s going on under the skin on a larger screen in the surgery room. This is a great way for our surgeons to view the cartilage, ligaments, and other areas that might need repair. As a result, increasingly large and complex procedures can be performed arthroscopically.
Why is Arthroscopic Surgery preferred over other techniques?
Patients have less pain and more rapid recovery than similar procedures performed through larger incisions. Depending on the procedure, many patients can expect to go home just hours after the surgery is finished.
When is arthroscopy an option?
Joints typically treated with arthroscopic techniques include the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle.
- Shoulder: impingement syndrome, Rotator cuff tendon tears, and recurrent dislocations
- Wrist: Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Knee: chondromalacia (wearing or injury of cartilage cushion), Meniscal (cartilage) tears, and anterior cruciate ligament tears with instability
Our orthopedic surgeons are experts in arthroscopic techniques.
Each of our surgeons at Washington Orthopaedic Center specializes in a different area.
- Dr. Keith Birchard – arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgery related to the knee & hand
- Dr. Michael Dujela – arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgery related to the foot and ankle
- Dr. Chad Bender – arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgery related to the hand, elbow, and shoulder.
- Dr. Chris Hawkins – arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgery related to the
