What is a Wrist Arthroscopy?
Wrist Arthroscopy is better known as 'keyhole surgery' and
allows your surgeon to look inside your wrist through a camera
inserted through a small cut in the skin. This allows a
diagnosis of any problems, probably cartilage related, and
treatment using special designed surgical instruments - often at
the same time.
What does this involve?
Wrist Arthroscopy is usually done as a day case done under
general anaesthetic and takes around 20 minutes.
Your surgeon will use a small frame to support your arm and
fluid will be injected into your joint to help them perform the
operation. Your arm will usually be in a tourniquet to reduce
the risk of bleeding.
Two to four small cuts will be made about half a centimetre long
around the wrist. A small telescope will be placed through
one of the cuts and instruments will be introduced through the
other cuts to treat any problems found.
Your surgeon can remove any lining of the joint if it is
inflamed and it is usually possible to trim or repair a torn
cartilage. At the end of the operation, your surgeon will
close the cuts with stitches or adhesive plasters.
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When wil I recover
As you are admitted as a day case, you would normally be able to
go home on the same day. Any stitches are usually removed
about one to two weeks after the operation. Your
Physiotherapist may give you some exercises and advice to help you
recover as soon as possible.
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What risks should I know about?
Wrist Arthroscopy is an extremely safe procedure but there is
always a small risk of bleeding or infection in the joint or some
damage to nerves and tendons.
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Circle care
Wrist Arthroscopy is carried out by our specialist team at
CircleBath where you can be sure of state of the art facilities and
the best possible care to get you back to normal as soon as
possible.
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