Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is also known as Arthroscopic surgery. This is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of Arthroscope into the joint to look at the damaged or injured joints, diagnose problems, repair damaged joints, etc. The arthroscope is an instrument that contains a  fiber-optic video camera which sends the images to the monitor. Arthroscopy is used to treat and diagnose a variety of joint problems. 

What are the joints that can be operated with this procedure?

The following are the joints that can be  operated through Arthroscope:

1. Shoulder
2. Knee
3. Wrist
4. Elbow
5. Ankle
6. Hip

What are the advantages of Arthroscopy?

The following are the advantages of Arthroscopy:

1. Minimally invasive which involves a small incision
2. Lesser risk of complications
3. Minimal postoperative pain
4. Less scarring

What are the indications of Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is indicated in the following conditions:

1. Damaged or torn cartilage
2. Loose bone fragments
3. Inflammation of the joint linings
4. Torn ligaments
5. Scarring within the joints
6. Plica syndrome
7. Dislocated knee cap
8. Microfracture
9. Torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
10. Tendonitis
11. Arthritis
12. Frozen shoulder
13. Bone spurs
14. Snapping hip syndrome
15. Posterior ankle pain
16. Ganglion cysts
17. Fractures 

What is the preparation for Arthroscopy?

The following are the preparation steps involved in Arthroscopy:

1. You may be asked about your present and past medical history and medication history.
2. The doctor may ask you to undergo different lab tests before the surgery.
3. Inform your doctor if you are using any blood thinners or pain killers.

What are the steps involved in Arthroscopy?

The following are the steps involved in the Arthroscopy:

1. General anesthesia will be given to avoid pain during the surgery.
2. The next step involves making a small incision on the limb that is to be operated. 
3. Through this incision, the Arthroscope is inserted to view the damage in the joint.
4. Other small incisions may be made to pass other surgical instruments.
5. The other surgical instruments are used to cut, grind, grasp or to repair the joint.
6. After correcting the joint, the instruments are removed gently.
7. Since the incision is small, it can be closed using 1 or 2 sutures or with the sterile adhesive tapes.

What is the postprocedure care/recovery care for Arthroscopy?

1. After the surgery, you will be feeling very drowsy for the next few hours.
2. There may be pain and discomfort post-surgery. 
3. The doctor will prescribe some painkillers to reduce the pain.
4. Follow all the instructions given by the doctor without fail.  
5. If bleeding is seen at the incision site, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
6. The patient may be recommended to use temporary splints, clutches, or slings for comfort and protection.
7. Physical therapy and some exercises are recommended to strengthen the muscles and help in improving the function of the joint.
8. If the symptoms like fever, drainage, pain that is not suppressed by medication, redness or swelling, tingling sensation, etc are developed; consult your doctor immediately.
9. There should be follow-up visits to your doctor once in a while to monitor your condition.

Who can perform Arthroscopy [Right specialist type for Arthroscopy]?

Arthroscopy can be performed by a certified and skilled Orthopedic surgeon or an orthopedic doctor who is well experienced in Arthroscopy.\

What is the cost of Arthroscopy?

The cost of Arthroscopy may vary according to the following factors:

1. Admission fee
2. Doctor fee
3. Age of the patient
4. Type of arthroscopic surgery
5. The medical condition of the patient
6. Post-surgical complications that are involved
7. Admission room that you opted for
8. Any other lab tests or examination tests such as X-ray, ECG, etc.

Minimum cost for Arthroscopy in Bangalore starts from Rs. 50,000

Average expenses for Arthroscopy in Bangalore is approximately Rs. 1,03,083

Maximum amount to be paid for Arthroscopy in Bangalore rises up to Rs. 2,40,000

Is Arthroscopy a major surgery or minor surgery?

Arthroscopy is considered a minor surgery since small incisions are made instead of large incisions.

What is the eligibility criteria for Arthroscopy?

The following are the eligibility criteria for Arthroscopy:

1. Patients who are experiencing pain that cannot be managed with the medications.
2. Patients who are finding difficulty in performing normal activities for more than 6 months.

What is the ineligibility criteria for Arthroscopy?
The following are the ineligibility criteria for Arthroscopy:

1. Diabetes
2. Smoking
3. Overweight or obesity
4. Active infection

What are the risks and complications associated with Arthroscopy?

The following are the risks and complications involved in Arthroscopy:

1. Infection
2. Blood clots
3. Tissue damage
4. Nerve damage

How long does it take to complete Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy can be completed in 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the type of procedure that is being carried out.

What is the recovery time?

Within a few days after the surgery, the patient can go back to light activities or desk work which do not involve much physical strain. The recovery period may vary from one patient to another. It depends on the patient's health condition and area that is operated.

What is the success rate of Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure and has about 90% success rate.

Is Arthroscopy painful?

Every surgical procedure comes with a certain level of pain and some discomfort. You won't be experiencing pain during this process because you will be under anesthesia. There may be some discomfort after the procedure.

What are the long-term results of Arthroscopy?

The long-term results of Arthroscopy are:

1. Symptoms are relieved
2. Pain relief
3. Improvement in the quality of life
4. Active participation in daily activities
   

Can Arthroscopy be detected in the future?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that involves small incisions. These incisions may leave small scars sometimes. Other than the scars, it cannot be detected in the future.

What are the alternatives for Arthroscopy?

The following are the alternatives for Arthroscopy:

1. Medication
2. Physiotherapy
3. Exercise
4. Weight management