Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows physicians to visualize, diagnose, and treat joint disorders using a specialized instrument called an arthroscope, which is inserted through small incisions. This method is used for the diagnosis and treatment of various joint conditions, including meniscal injuries, cartilage and ligament damage, osteoarthritis, and other joint diseases.

When is arthroscopy indicated?

• Persistent joint pain, reduced range of motion, or signs of inflammation.
• Joint injuries, including sprains, ligament tears, or dislocations.
• Diagnostic clarification of joint disorders such as osteoarthritis, arthritis, and meniscal tears.
• Post-traumatic or postoperative assessment of joint condition.
• When tissue sampling (biopsy) is required for diagnostic purposes.

How is the arthroscopy procedure performed?

1. Preparation. The patient undergoes the necessary examinations, including X-ray or MRI. In some cases, bowel preparation may be required prior to the procedure.
2. Anesthesia. The procedure may be performed under local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the intervention and the patient’s condition.
3. Insertion of the arthroscope. Through several small incisions around the joint, the arthroscope and surgical instruments are introduced. The arthroscope camera transmits images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to visualize intra-articular structures and accurately identify pathology.
4. Treatment. Depending on the findings, the surgeon may remove damaged tissue, repair meniscal or cartilage lesions, perform corrective procedures, or obtain tissue samples for analysis.
5. Closure of incisions. The incisions are small and usually require minimal suturing, allowing for rapid wound healing.

Advantages of arthroscopy in Belarus

• Minimal tissue trauma due to small incisions, resulting in shorter recovery time.
• Lower risk of complications such as infection or bleeding compared with traditional open surgery.
• Rapid recovery, enabling patients to return to daily activities relatively quickly.
• High diagnostic accuracy with the possibility of simultaneous treatment during a single procedure.

Recovery after arthroscopy

• Light activity and avoidance of excessive joint load during the first days after the procedure.
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises to restore joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
• Use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications as prescribed by the physician.
• Gradual return to normal physical activity over several weeks.

In Belarus, arthroscopy is performed in modern medical centers equipped with high-quality arthroscopic systems and surgical instruments. Specialists apply minimally invasive techniques, allowing patients to recover quickly and avoid more extensive surgical procedures.