|
Indications
for Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy
can be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of
Arthritis
–
Non-inflammatory
–
Inflammatory
-
Non-inflammatory
degenerative
arthritis, or osteoarthritis, can be seen using the
arthroscope as frayed and irregular cartilage
-
Inflammatory
arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, some patients with
isolated chronic joint swelling can benefit by arthroscopic
removal of the inflamed joint tissue (synovectomy). The tissue
lining of the joint (synovium) can be biopsied and examined
under a microscope to determine the cause of the inflammation
and discover infections
Injuries
within the joint.
-
Common
joint injuries for which arthroscopy is considered include
cartilage tears (meniscus
tears),
-
ligament
strains and tears, and
-
cartilage
deterioration underneath the kneecap (patella).
Finally,
loose
tissues, such as chips of bone or cartilage, or foreign objects,
such as plant thorns, that become lodged within the joint can be
removed with arthroscopy.
The
arthroscope can also be used to assist in
ligament
reconstructions and meniscal repairs.
|
