Sports injuries and arthritis can have a profound impact on individuals,but advancements in minimally invasive treatments have allowed individuals to recover comfortably and quickly.
Arthroscopic surgery has been proven to help injured individuals recover faster by offering several advantages over traditional open surgery. This innovative technique utilizes small incisions and a tiny camera to access and treat specific areas of the body. Another minimally invasive technique is robotic surgery, which is used in joint replacement surgery for patients with advanced stage arthritis.
In this article, we discuss arthroscopy and robotic surgery, what they can treat, how they help speed up recovery, and where you can go in Naples, Florida, for these cutting-edge treatments.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to examine and treat injuries. Instead of making a large incision, small incisions are made, through which a tiny camera called an arthroscope is inserted. This camera provides a clear view of the ligament, cartilage, and other tissues on the screen, allowing the surgeon to diagnose and make repairs.
There are many benefits to arthroscopy, which include:
- Smaller scars
- Less postoperative pain
- An early start to rehabilitation
- A faster return to normal
Arthroscopy can be used to address many orthopedic issues. For the right candidate, it can be highly advantageous.
How Can Arthroscopy Be Used in Sports Injuries?
Orthopedic surgeons can use arthroscopy to treat sports injuries, such as:
#1 Knee Injuries
Arthroscopic knee surgery is commonly performed to treat various knee injuries in athletes, including:
- Meniscus tears – The orthopedic surgeon can repair or remove a torn meniscus without damaging the surrounding tissue.
- ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears – ACL tears usually entail a lengthy recovery period. Arthroscopic surgery allows the surgeon to reconstruct the torn ACL using graft tissue.
- Cartilage damage – The orthopedic surgeon can remove loose or damaged cartilage fragments and smooth out rough surfaces using a highly targeted approach.
#2 Shoulder Injuries
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is often used to address conditions like:
- Rotator cuff tears – The surgeon can use arthroscopy to attach the torn tendon to the bone using sutures or anchors.
- Shoulder impingement – Arthroscopy can be used to remove inflamed or damaged tissue, such as bursitis or thickened ligaments, that cause compression and pain in the shoulder joint.
- Labral tears – The surgeon repairs the torn labrum and reattaches it to the socket through sutures or anchors.
- Shoulder instability – Arthroscopy can help address shoulder instability by repairing or tightening the ligaments and tendons that support the shoulder joint.
#3 Ankle Injuries
Arthroscopic ankle surgery is used to diagnose and treat various ankle problems, including:
- Cartilage injuries – Arthroscopy allows surgeons to address cartilage injuries by smoothing or removing damaged cartilage fragments.
- Ankle fractures – Arthroscopy can be used in the reduction and fixation of the fractured bones.
- Ankle instability – Surgeons can use arthroscopy to address ankle instability by repairing or reconstructing the damaged ligaments that contribute to instability.
#4 Wrist and Elbow Injuries
Arthroscopic surgery can also be employed to treat wrist and elbow injuries in athletes, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome – Orthopedic surgeons may perform an arthroscopic release, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve and alleviate symptoms.
- Tennis elbow – Arthroscopy may be used to remove damaged tissue or perform a tendon repair procedure, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgical approach that utilizes robotic systems to assist surgeons during procedures. It combines the skills of the surgeon with advanced technology to enhance precision and control.
In the context of hip and knee joint replacements, robotic-assisted surgery can speed up recovery in many ways:
- Precise Planning and Alignment – Robotic systems enable surgeons to create a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s anatomy. Using preoperative imaging, the robotic system assists in precise planning of implant size, as well as implant positioning and alignment. This accuracy can lead to improved joint function and longevity of the prosthesis.
- Enhanced Surgical Precision – During the procedure, the robotic system provides real-time feedback to the surgeon, assisting in precise bone preparation and implant placement. This level of precision can help optimize the fit and alignment of the joint replacement, potentially reducing complications and improving overall outcomes.
Patients can boost their recovery from arthroscopy and robotic-assisted joint replacement by committing to their physical therapy program, which helps regain their strength and flexibility after surgery. Individuals who undergo physical therapy tend to have a fast recovery. A gradual return to activity can help reduce the risk of reinjury. Your orthopedic care team will provide instructions to follow for a successful recovery.
Best Orthopedic Surgeons in Naples, FL
The orthopedic surgeons at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Florida, are some of the best in the country. Our physicians are trained in the latest surgical innovations, such as arthroscopic repair and robotic-assisted joint replacement, for a faster post-op recovery and offer physical therapy services as part of your rehabilitation.
Our caring orthopedic team is with you every step of the way. To schedule an appointment with a top orthopedic surgeon, call our office today at (239) 261-2663 or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to providing you with the most advanced minimally invasive treatments in Florida.
