What is Wrist Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a type of surgery that is minimally invasive, which allows to observe inside of the joints, provides various types of procedures when necessary. Wrist joint is the most complex joint of the body consisting of many bones and ligaments. Wrist arthroscopy allows diagnosis and treatment of many problems of the joint by using small holes.

For the last couple of decades, arthroscopy of the wrist joint is the third most frequently used endoscopic surgery after knee and shoulder joints. Because of the small portal holes and less soft tissue damage compared to open surgery; pain, swelling, and joint stiffness are less after arthroscopy; recovery can be faster.

When is Wrist Arthroscopy?

Since this process allows a clear observation and examination of the cartilage surfaces and the ligamentous structures between the bones inside of the wrist joint, the detection of the continuity of these structures, traumatic problems, and the other disorders; and endoscopic treatment modalities are established.

Wrist pain, swelling, snapping sensation or motion limitation may indicate a problem in the joint.

Wrist arthroscopy permits to diagnose and treat these kind of problems using special equipments from small incisions.

How Is Wrist Arthroscopy Performed?

A thin rod shape instrument with a tiny digital camera at the tip is inserted through a small hole into the joint. The inside of the joint is examined with images projected on a monitor. Endoscopic surgical procedures are performed with special equipment and instruments placed using other holes (portals). Joint debridement, repair of ruptured ligaments, removal of cysts and foreign bodies, reduction and fixation of the fractures can be performed during these procedures. Mini-open surgeries with small incisions may be rarely necessary.

Prof. Dr. Eftal Gudemez

Othopedics and Traumatology

Hand Surgery and Microsurgery