| Arthroscopy Procedures |
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint, such as the knee. Disease and injuries can damage bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Some of the most frequent conditions found during arthroscopy are torn or abnormal cartilage, torn ligaments, loose fragments of bone or cartilage, damaged joint surfaces, inflammation of the joint lining, and misaligned bones. To have an arthroscopy procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the knee area and inserts a pencil-shaped arthroscope that magnifies and illuminates the structures inside the joint. By using a miniature television camera and screen the surgeon is able to see the interior of the joint. Once inside, the surgeon can evaluate the condition of the structures inside the joint and determine if repair is needed.
A common procedure that is performed through arthroscopy is Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction. This ligament connects the knee joints. If it ruptures or becomes injured, it is necessary to reconstruct it in order for the patient to return to an active lifestyle which places stress on the knee. Through arthroscopy, the surgeon is able to graft tissue from another part of the knee to use in the reconstruction of the ACL.
For more information about arthroscopy procedures or other orthopaedic procedures available at Lakes Regional Healthcare, please call John Leupold, M.D. at 712-336-8708 or Michael Donohue, M.D. at 712-336-5311. |
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