Arthroscopic Surgery Specialist

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment option used to diagnose, treat, and prevent problems affecting the joints. Arthroscopic surgery involves your New York City Ankle & Foot provider using a tool called an arthroscope––a skinny tube with a high-definition camera at the end––to observe and treat various problems. 

During arthroscopic surgery, your surgeon makes a small incision and pushes the arthroscope through it. The arthroscope feeds images to a digital monitor, allowing your surgeon to look at your joints, cartilage, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. 

Because arthroscopic surgery uses smaller incisions and tools, it presents far less risk of infection than traditional open surgery and boasts quicker recovery times. 

What types of issues can arthroscopic surgery treat?

Arthroscopic surgery is incredibly versatile. The team at New York City Ankle & Foot regularly use arthroscopic surgery to diagnose and treat:

• Joint injuries
• Cartilage injuries
• Muscle injuries
• Tendon injuries
• Diseases such as arthritis
• Knee pain
• Foot pain
• Ankle pain

Your provider might also recommend arthroscopic surgery if you have ankle instability or swelling that affects your feet, toes, or ankles.

What happens during arthroscopic surgery?

At New  York City Ankle & Foot, the team performs arthroscopic surgery as an outpatient procedure. Before your operation, your surgeon administers a local anesthetic to numb the area being treated, likely your foot or ankle. 

Once the anesthesia sets in, your surgeon makes a small incision near your affected joint. Next, he inserts the arthroscope through the incision to get a closer look at the swelling and damage. After pinpointing the source of your discomfort, your surgeon uses several small, specially-designed tools to make repairs. 

Following surgery, your provider stitches up the incision and sends you home with a list of recovery instructions. Arthroscopic surgery usually takes 60-90 minutes.

What is recovery like after arthroscopic surgery?

In the days and weeks following your surgery, it’s perfectly normal to experience some pain, swelling, and general discomfort. Take your medications as prescribed and change your bandages regularly to avoid infection. You should also make sure to attend all of your follow up and physical therapy appointments. Slowly but surely, you’re able to return to normal activities such as work and exercise. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of arthroscopic surgery, request a consultation at New York City Ankle & Foot by calling the office nearest you or using the online booking tool.