Arthroscopic Surgery: 5 Things to Know About This Treatment for Joint Injuries

Joint injuries can be painful and debilitating, affecting mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have made arthroscopic surgery a minimally invasive option for diagnosing and treating joint problems. Whether you’re dealing with a knee, shoulder, or hip injury, understanding this procedure can help you make an informed decision about your treatment. One of the best doctors for arthroscopy surgery in Nairobi, Dr Ankit Dave, has listed the five key things to know about arthroscopic surgery.

1. What is Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery, also known as arthroscopy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint injuries. The procedure involves making small incisions and inserting a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint. This allows surgeons to view the inside of the joint on a monitor and perform necessary repairs using specialized surgical instruments.

Arthroscopy is commonly used to treat injuries in the:

● Knee (meniscus tears, ligament injuries, cartilage damage)

● Shoulder (rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement syndrome)

● Hip (hip impingement, cartilage damage)

● Ankle (ligament repairs, bone spurs)

● Wrist and Elbow (carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow)

Unlike traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers a less invasive approach, leading to faster recovery times and reduced complications.

2. When is Arthroscopic Surgery Recommended?

You might have been recommend arthroscopic surgery from the best orthopaedic surgeons in Nairobi for experiencing:

● Chronic joint pain that does not improve with conservative treatments (rest, physical therapy, medications)

● Joint instability caused by ligament tears or cartilage damage

● Limited range of motion due to joint abnormalities

● Swelling and inflammation that persist despite treatment

● Sports injuries or traumatic joint damage

Common conditions treated with arthroscopy include:

● Torn meniscus in the knee

● Rotator cuff injuries in the shoulder

● Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears

● Cartilage damage (chondral defects)

● Loose bone fragments or bone spurs

3. What Happens During the Procedure?

Arthroscopic surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients can go home the same day. Here’s what to expect:

Before Surgery

● You may receive general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, depending on the joint being treated.

● The surgical team cleans the area and marks incision points.

During Surgery

● The surgeon makes small incisions (typically 2–3) around the joint.

● A sterile solution is injected into the joint to improve visibility.

● The arthroscope (a tiny camera) is inserted, transmitting real-time images to a monitor.

● Specialized surgical tools are used to repair, remove, or reshape damaged tissues.

● Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are stitched or closed with adhesive strips.

After Surgery

● Patients are monitored for a few hours before being discharged.

● Recovery instructions, including pain management and rehabilitation exercises, are provided.

4. Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery

Being one of the best doctor for arthroscopy surgery in Nairobi, Dr Ankit Dave lists several advantages compared to traditional open surgery:

Minimally Invasive Approach

● Smaller incisions mean less tissue damage and reduced scarring.

Faster Recovery Time

● Most patients can resume normal activities sooner compared to open surgery.

Reduced Pain and Swelling

● Less trauma to surrounding tissues leads to less post-operative pain.

Lower Risk of Infection

● Small incisions reduce the likelihood of complications.

Precise Diagnosis and Treatment

● The arthroscope provides clear visuals of joint structures, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

5. Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from arthroscopic surgery varies depending on the joint treated and the extent of the procedure. However, following post-operative care instructions is essential for optimal healing.

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

● Rest the joint and avoid putting excessive weight or stress on it.

● Use ice therapy to reduce swelling.

● Keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

● A structured physical therapy program helps regain strength and mobility.

● Patients may need assistive devices (crutches, braces) temporarily.

● Full recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Returning to Normal Activities

● Light activities may resume within a few days to weeks.

● Athletes or active individuals may need several months before returning to high-impact sports.

● Following doctor’s guidance ensures safe and effective recovery.

Final Thoughts

Arthroscopic surgery is a highly effective treatment for joint injuries, offering minimized surgical risks, faster recovery, and improved outcomes. If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain or mobility issues, consult with the best orthopaedic surgeon in Nairobi to determine if arthroscopy is the right option for you. With proper care and rehabilitation, many patients experience significant pain relief and restored joint function, allowing them to return to their normal activities with confidence.