Wrist Arthroscopy Specialist

What is wrist arthroscopy?

Wrist arthroscopy is a surgical procedure to evaluate and treat problems in and around your wrist. In this procedure, your surgeon threads an arthroscope, a thin tube with an internal camera, through a small wrist puncture.

Your surgeon views your inner wrist on a monitor. They can evaluate the wrist joints and diagnose problems without making large incisions.

If you need treatment, for example, cyst removal, your surgeon makes another puncture in your wrist. They move thin surgical instruments through the puncture and perform the repair as they watch the inside of your wrist on the monitor.

After completing the repairs, your surgeon withdraws the surgical tools and places a small stitch to close the punctures. They may apply a bandage, cast, splint, or brace after the procedure.

When might I need wrist arthroscopy?

Ortho 1 Medical Group will suggest wrist arthroscopy if you have wrist pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatment. During wrist arthroscopy, they can find the particular source of your pain and treat it during the same surgery. The many conditions treatable during wrist arthroscopy include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Ligament tears
• Ganglion cysts
• Fractures
• Cartilage tears
• Muscle tears

The exact surgical tools used depend upon the condition. During arthroscopy, surgeons can remove, tighten, and reconnect tissue. They can also remove, realign, and stabilize bones using internal fixation tools (pins and screws).

What happens after wrist arthroscopy?

You must elevate your wrist for 2-3 days after your wrist arthroscopy. Ortho 1 Medical Group recommends specific ways to help you recover full use of your wrist as quickly as possible. If you have a brace, splint, or cast to support your wrist as it heals, you’ll receive instructions about its care.

You’ll usually have physical therapy to improve wrist strength and flexibility. You might need anti-inflammatory medicine and ice packs to reduce swelling and ease discomfort following your procedure. But, because a wrist arthroscopy uses small incisions and minimal bleeding, pain after surgery is usually mild.

The team of arthroscopic surgery experts at Ortho 1 Medical Group is here to help with your wrist pain. Book your appointment online or call the office for help.