Our Summary

The research paper discusses the use of wrist arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing and treating diseases of the wrist. Wrist arthroscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to look inside the wrist joint to diagnose and treat problems, while MRI is a non-invasive method to examine the body’s organs and structures. The paper first reviews the normal structure of the wrist as seen through these methods. It then looks at common wrist diseases and describes what these diseases look like when observed through arthroscopy and MRI.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of wrist arthroscopy and how has its use evolved since its introduction in 1979?
  2. How does wrist arthroscopy compare to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing and treating wrist conditions?
  3. How do the findings from arthroscopy correlate with MRI findings in common wrist pathologies?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing wrist arthroscopy to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the wrist elevated, applying ice as needed, and performing prescribed exercises to aid in recovery and prevent stiffness. They may also recommend avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a certain period of time to allow the wrist to heal properly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for wrist arthroscopy include those with persistent wrist pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and/or a history of wrist trauma. Common pathologic conditions that may warrant wrist arthroscopy include ligament tears, cartilage injuries, ganglion cysts, arthritis, and fractures. Additionally, patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication may also be candidates for wrist arthroscopy. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified orthopedic surgeon to determine if wrist arthroscopy is the appropriate course of treatment for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before wrist arthroscopy:

  • Patient experiences wrist pain, swelling, stiffness, or other symptoms that cannot be diagnosed through physical examination alone.
  • Patient undergoes imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms.
  • Based on the imaging results, the patient’s healthcare provider recommends wrist arthroscopy as a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and possibly treat the wrist condition.

During wrist arthroscopy:

  • Patient is placed under anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
  • Small incisions are made in the wrist to insert the arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera attached, to visualize the inside of the joint.
  • The surgeon examines the joint, identifies any abnormalities or conditions, and may perform necessary treatments such as removing scar tissue, repairing ligaments, or removing loose cartilage.
  • The procedure typically lasts about 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the condition.

After wrist arthroscopy:

  • Patient is monitored in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off and they are deemed stable to go home.
  • The patient may experience some pain, swelling, or stiffness in the wrist, which can be managed with pain medication and rest.
  • Physical therapy may be recommended to help improve range of motion and strength in the wrist.
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.
  • Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment performed during arthroscopy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is wrist arthroscopy and how can it help diagnose and treat my wrist condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with wrist arthroscopy?
  3. How should I prepare for the procedure and what can I expect during and after the surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process following wrist arthroscopy?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my wrist condition?
  6. How successful is wrist arthroscopy in treating the specific condition I have?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  8. Can you explain the arthroscopic findings and how they compare to MRI findings in my case?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or limitations I should be aware of after undergoing wrist arthroscopy?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or activities I should avoid to prevent further injury to my wrist after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Nacey NC, Boatright JD, Freilich AM. Journal: Sports Med Arthrosc Rev. 2017 Dec;25(4):e18-e30. doi: 10.1097/JSA.0000000000000172. PMID: 29095398