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Arthroscopy Specialist

Western Orthopaedics, P.C. Our Services Arthroscopy

Western Orthopaedics, P.C.

Orthopedic Surgeons & Sports Medicine located in Englewood, CO

If you experience a muscle, bone, tendon, ligament, or joint injury that requires surgery, you can trust the experts at Western Orthopaedics, P.C., in Denver, Colorado, with your care. They offer minimally invasive arthroscopy to help you recover as quickly as possible, and fully restore musculoskeletal function. Call Western Orthopaedics, P.C., for an appointment today or use the online booking tool.

Arthroscopy Q & A

What is arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which your orthopaedic surgeon uses tiny incisions and an arthroscope, a tiny tube with a camera attached to it, to view the inside of a joint or treat an injury.

Benefits of arthroscopy vs. invasive surgery include:

  • Smaller incisions
  • Less bleeding 
  • Minimal scarring
  • Shorter recovery times
  • Less pain
  • Lower risk of complications

Your orthopaedic surgeon might use arthroscopy to diagnose an injury, or treat an injured area of your joint at the same time as diagnostic arthroscopy.

For what is arthroscopy used?

Your surgeon might recommend arthroscopy if you experience pain in your:

  • Knee
  • Ankle
  • Shoulder
  • Elbow
  • Wrist
  • Hip

They might recommend undergoing the procedure if results from X-rays or other diagnostic imaging procedures are inconclusive. Surgical arthroscopy can treat torn ligaments, joint scarring, loose bone fragments, damaged or torn cartilage, and inflamed joint linings.

How should I prepare for surgery?

Prior to surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon reviews your symptoms and medical history, examines the painful area, and might use blood or imaging tests to determine the most appropriate course of action. 

Your doctor gives you pre-surgical instructions that might include avoiding certain medicines, not eating or drinking the day of surgery, and finding a friend or family member to drive you home.

What happens during an arthroscopy?

Just before arthroscopy, you receive local anesthesia, regional anesthesia, or general anesthesia to put you to sleep or prevent you from feeling any pain. Your surgeon makes a tiny incision and inserts the arthroscope into the joint to view the inside of it or make repairs. 

Arthroscopy might last about an hour or two, depending on the complexity of the procedure needed. Your doctor closes the treatment site with stitches or adhesive tape.

What should I expect during my recovery?

After arthroscopy, you’re taken to a recovery room to rest for a few hours. Someone must drive you home. Follow post-surgery instructions by taking medication as prescribed by your doctor, resting, icing the area, and wearing a brace when necessary. 

Call your surgeon if you experience signs of infection, such as fever, redness, or drainage from the incision site.

After a few days, you should be able to resume light activity or desk work and participate in strenuous activity several weeks later. Attend all follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions to accelerate healing and optimize your results.

If you have an injury and experience severe or chronic pain, schedule an appointment with Western Orthopaedics, P.C., over the phone or request one online today.