Arthroscopic surgery can treat inflammation, torn ligaments and tendons, loose bone or cartilage and some diseases.
During this minimally invasive procedure, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon will insert a narrow scope (called an arthroscope) through a small incision to view the inside of your joint with a fiber-optic video camera. This allows the surgeon to see the inside of your joint, diagnose and sometimes even treat a joint condition without making a large incision.
Arthroscopic surgery is used to examine the joints of the body to determine either the cause of joint damage or the extent of the damage. The surgery is performed if physicians are unable to determine the source of the joint problem. For example, if it suspected that the joint is damaged but other diagnostic testing such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI are unable to determine the nature of the damage, an arthroscopy may be done to make a diagnosis.
Because it is minimally invasive, there are multiple benefits to arthroscopic surgery, including:
Every child's surgical experience is different. Depending on the repair needed, as well as the child's age and general health, a pediatric specialist will determine if arthroscopic surgery is an option.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
Since I tore my ACL and had to have surgery, I did not know if I would recover in time to compete at my high school regional meet, but my doctor never doubted that I could.
