What is Wrist Arthroscopy?

Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats a variety of wrist conditions. Our, new surgical techniques and equipment allow many traditionally open procedures to be performed in a minimally invasive arthroscopic fashion. Small incisions are made and therefore fewer muscles, nerves and soft tissues are damaged during the procedure. Patients experience symptom relief quicker and fully recover from surgery faster.

Local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia is used to perform this outpatient procedure. First, small incisions are made on the wrist. Next, an arthroscopic camera is passed through the incisions and the surgeon views the wrist joint on a nearby television monitor. The type of procedure dictates the next procedure steps:

Carpal tunnel release. The carpal tunnel ligament is carefully cut to decompress the pinched median nerve.
Diagnostic wrist arthroscopy. The surgeon visualizes the wrist joint to diagnose an injury and determine future treatment.
Ganglion cyst removal. Asymptomatic ganglion cyst is excised.
Ligament repair. Torn wrist ligaments ends are attached to one another and if necessary bone.
Wrist fractures. Minor wrist bone fractures are smoothed and shaved.

Patients who experience symptoms that do not respond to nonsurgical treatment options may be candidates for wrist arthroscopy. Key symptoms patients should be aware of include but are not limited to:

• Decreased mobility
• Numbness
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Weakness

Please make an appointment today to see if the procedure can help relieve your symptoms.