Our Summary

This study, conducted at Carolinas Medical Center, tested if training with a virtual reality simulator for knee surgery could help orthopedic residents improve their skills in wrist surgery. The researchers had the residents practice a simulated wrist surgery, then train with the knee simulator, and then repeat the wrist surgery simulation. The residents’ performances were rated using a special scale for arthroscopic surgery skills. The researchers found that the knee simulator training didn’t help the residents get better at the wrist surgery simulation. In fact, the more experienced residents actually did worse on the wrist surgery simulation after training with the knee simulator. Based on these results, the researchers suggest that a simulator specifically designed for wrist surgery would be more beneficial for improving residents’ skills.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study conducted at Carolinas Medical Center?
  2. Did the use of a knee surgery simulator improve the orthopedic residents’ skills in wrist surgery?
  3. What did the researchers suggest to improve the residents’ skills in wrist arthroscopy based on the study’s results?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about wrist arthroscopy is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the wrist elevated, icing it regularly, and doing prescribed exercises to aid in recovery and prevent stiffness. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for wrist arthroscopy typically have conditions such as:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Wrist fractures
  • Wrist ligament tears
  • Ganglion cysts
  • Wrist arthritis
  • Wrist instability
  • Tendon injuries
  • Wrist impingement

These patients may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion in the wrist. Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the surgeon to diagnose and treat these conditions by inserting a small camera and instruments through small incisions in the wrist. It is often recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication.

Timeline

Before wrist arthroscopy:

  1. Patient experiences wrist pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving the wrist.
  2. Patient consults with a doctor or orthopedic surgeon for evaluation.
  3. Doctor recommends wrist arthroscopy as a minimally invasive surgical option.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative planning, including medical history review and imaging tests.
  5. Patient receives instructions for pre-operative preparation, such as fasting and medication adjustments.

After wrist arthroscopy:

  1. Patient undergoes the wrist arthroscopy procedure under anesthesia.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  3. Patient may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and stiffness in the wrist post-operatively.
  4. Patient follows post-operative instructions for pain management, wound care, and physical therapy.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improved wrist function over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of wrist arthroscopy and how can it help me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with wrist arthroscopy?
  3. What is the success rate of wrist arthroscopy in treating my condition?
  4. What is the recovery process like after wrist arthroscopy and how long will it take for me to fully recover?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments to wrist arthroscopy that I should consider?
  6. How many wrist arthroscopy procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or imaging before the procedure?
  9. How should I prepare for wrist arthroscopy, including any restrictions on eating or drinking beforehand?
  10. What can I expect during the recovery period and what type of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be necessary?

Reference

Authors: Ode G, Loeffler B, Chadderdon RC, Haines N, Scannell B, Patt J, Gaston G. Journal: J Surg Educ. 2018 Nov;75(6):1664-1672. doi: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2018.04.009. Epub 2018 May 3. PMID: 29730181