Arthroscopy Specialist

What is arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy refers to a unique form of surgical procedure that allows trained specialists like Dr. Candelora to see a joint, make a diagnosis, and do the necessary repair all in one session. Using a few small incisions and a fiber-optic camera, he can see inside the joint without the more traditional open incision. For patients, that means less pain and better healing.

Once Dr. Candelora can see the joint, he can make an accurate diagnosis. If surgical repair is required, he is able to insert tiny instruments into the already existing incisions to fix the problem quickly and safely. This makes arthroscopy a better choice than traditional open surgeries for many joint problems, especially for the:

• Knee
• Hip
• Shoulder

Open surgery on these large joints requires a large incision that takes longer to heal and can open the patient up to complications such as bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and blood clots.

What conditions are treated with arthroscopic surgery?

It's up to Dr. Candelora to decide whether a patient is a good candidate for an arthroscopic procedure. In general, this technique is effective for:

• Removal of bone fragments
• Repair or remove damaged cartilage
• Inflamed joint linings
• Joint infections
• Torn ligaments
• Scarring

Dr. Candelora will discuss the possibility of an arthroscopic procedure with each patient if it is the best way to resolve their condition.

Are there risks with arthroscopic surgery?

There are risks with any kind of surgical procedure but complications are uncommon. Some patients may experience:

• Tissue damage
• Infection
• Blood clots

It is safe to say the odds of preventing these complications are better with an arthroscopic procedure than with an open surgery.

What should a person expect after arthroscopy?

Your results after surgery will depend on the severity of the damage, the affected joint, and your overall health. Dr. Candelora and his staff will go over the procedure and what you can expect from it prior to the surgery.

Many of these procedures are done on an outpatient basis, meaning patients will go home within a few hours. The surgery involves the use of a local or regional anesthetic and takes between 30 minutes to a few hours to complete. Afterward, the staff will provide helpful list of home care instructions. Your care plan after the repair may include follow up appointments and physical therapy, as well.