If you’re dealing with joint pain, limited mobility, or a recent injury, minimally invasive surgery may be the key to a faster recovery. At Valley Orthopaedic Specialists, our experienced orthopedic surgeons offer advanced arthroscopic surgery for patients throughout Connecticut, providing faster healing and a quicker return to the activities you love. Whether you’re suffering from a torn ligament or inflamed joint tissue, arthroscopy allows us to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions with precision and minimal disruption.
What Is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery, often called arthroscopy, is a minimally invasive technique used to view and treat problems inside a joint. A small instrument called an arthroscope is inserted through a tiny incision in the skin. This device includes a lens, a fiber-optic light source, and a camera that displays images on a monitor, allowing your orthopedic surgeon to clearly examine the joint in real-time. While arthroscopy was once only used for diagnosis, it is now frequently used to perform surgical repairs on joints. It allows for smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and faster recovery, making it a great option for many orthopedic conditions.
What Conditions Can Be Treated Arthroscopically?
Arthroscopic surgery is now used to treat a wide range of joint conditions. Some of the most common include torn ligaments and cartilage, joint inflammation, and loose fragments of bone or tissue inside the joint. It can also address scar tissue and stiffness from previous injuries or chronic conditions. At Valley Orthopaedic Specialists, we use arthroscopy to treat injuries in the shoulder, knee, hip, and elbow. This includes procedures such as ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repairs, and meniscus surgery, among others.
Why Choose Arthroscopic Surgery?
Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers several clear advantages. Because only small incisions are required, patients typically experience less pain, minimal scarring, and reduced risk of infection. Many procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. Recovery times are generally shorter, and patients often return to normal activities more quickly than with conventional surgery. Additionally, the enhanced visibility offered by the arthroscope allows orthopedic surgeons to perform delicate procedures with greater accuracy.
Common Arthroscopic Procedures
The most common joints treated with arthroscopy include the shoulder, knee, hip, and elbow. At Valley Orthopaedic Specialists, our team performs these procedures regularly, using the latest techniques and equipment to ensure optimal outcomes. Although less common, arthroscopy may also be used to treat the wrist, ankle, or other small joints.
What to Expect After Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is typically completed in under two hours, and patients are usually discharged the same day. After the procedure, your care team will provide you with clear post-operative instructions, which may include pain management, rest, elevation, and protection of the joint. Physical therapy often plays an important role in recovery, helping to rebuild strength and restore range of motion. Your exact recovery timeline will depend on the specific procedure and your overall health, but many patients return to daily activities within a few weeks.
Is Arthroscopic Surgery Right for You?
If you’ve been experiencing joint discomfort or have suffered a sports or work-related injury, arthroscopic surgery may be a less invasive option worth exploring. At Valley Orthopaedic Specialists, our skilled orthopedic surgeons specialize in arthroscopic procedures and are committed to delivering personalized care that supports long-term healing and mobility. We take pride in helping patients across Oxford, Shelton, and Fairfield, Connecticut, return to their lifestyle with minimal downtime. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists and find out if arthroscopic surgery is right for you.