If you’re experiencing joint pain or discomfort, you may have heard about arthroscopic surgery as a potential solution. This minimally invasive procedure has revolutionized the field of orthopedics, offering patients in Naples, Florida, and beyond a less painful and more efficient way to address various joint issues.
What is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems using a small camera called an arthroscope. This tiny device is inserted through a small incision, giving the surgeon a clear view of the inside of the joint on a video monitor. Additional small incisions are made to insert specialized instruments for repairing damaged tissues.
The Benefits of Arthroscopic Procedures
Arthroscopic surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgery:
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
- Reduced pain and swelling
- Lower risk of infection
- Can be done outpatient at an ambulatory surgery center
- Faster recovery times
- Less scarring
- Ability to perform both diagnosis and treatment in one session
These benefits make arthroscopic procedures an attractive option for many patients seeking relief from joint issues.
Common Joint Issues Treated with Arthroscopy
Arthroscopic surgery can address a wide range of joint problems, including:
- Torn rotator cuff tendons
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Meniscus tears in the knee
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries
- Cartilage damage
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments
While the knee and shoulder are the most common joints treated with arthroscopy, this versatile technique can also be applied to the elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist.
Shoulder Arthroscopy: A Specialized Approach
Shoulder arthroscopy is a particularly effective treatment for various shoulder conditions. This procedure allows orthopedic surgeons to repair torn rotator cuffs, remove bone spurs, and address other issues that cause pain and limit mobility. By using small incisions and specialized instruments, shoulder arthroscopy can help patients regain function and reduce pain with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Elbow Arthroscopy: Precision in a Complex Joint
The elbow joint, while smaller than the shoulder or knee, can also benefit from arthroscopic techniques. Elbow arthroscopy is used to treat conditions such as tennis elbow, arthritis, and loose bodies within the joint. This precise approach allows for effective treatment with less post-operative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Choosing the Right Orthopedic Surgeon
When considering arthroscopic surgery, it’s crucial to choose an experienced and skilled orthopedic surgeon. In Naples, Florida, Dr. Steven S. Goldberg stands out as a leading shoulder specialist and orthopedic surgeon. With over 20 years of experience and specialized training in shoulder and elbow problems, Dr. Goldberg has helped countless patients return to their active lifestyles. Dr. Goldberg has performed more than 4,000 arthroscopic procedures. His expertise, combined with his commitment to patient care, makes him a top choice for those seeking joint treatments in Southwest Florida.
The Arthroscopic Surgery Experience
If you’re scheduled for an arthroscopic procedure, here’s what you can expect: Before the procedure. The anesthesiologist will typically administer a regional anesthesia to the shoulder, before going to sleep. This combination of regional and general anesthesia is considered best practice and is how most shoulder surgeries are done in the United States today. Small incisions will be made around the joint. The arthroscope and surgical instruments will be inserted through these incisions. Your surgeon will examine the joint and perform any necessary repairs. The incisions will be closed with stitches or adhesive strips. When you wake up, most patients are very comfortable because of the regional anesthesia that was administered at the beginning. You’ll spend approximately an hour in recovery before being discharged on the same day. Most patients can start doing simple activities, such as eating, writing, or texting the next day. Most other activities resume in the first few weeks depending on the type of procedure performed. Athletes and those who do sports can return higher levels of activity shortly afterward depending on the type of procedure performed.
Take the Next Step Towards Joint Health
If you’re experiencing joint pain or have been told you might need surgery, arthroscopic procedures could offer a less invasive solution with excellent outcomes. Take action today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Steven Goldberg to discuss whether arthroscopic surgery is right for you. Contact our office to book your appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle. With expert care and cutting-edge arthroscopic techniques, you can look forward to getting back to the activities you love sooner than you might think.
