During joint surgery it is vital to inspect the joint to evaluate for damage, treat problems in the joint, and assist in repairing fractures of the joint. To be able to look into the joint surgeons can use two different ways:

1. Arthrotomy – this means using a scalpel blade to cut open the joint and look inside with the naked eye.

2. Arthroscopy – this means making a small incision (3-5 mm) and placing a small camera (arthroscope) into the joint so the image is then projected onto a screen.

In skilled hands such as Dr. David Dycus at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, arthroscopy is superior.

Which provides a more thorough evaluation of the interior of the joint?

The answer is arthroscopy, as it provides superior visualization of the joint. The surgeon is able to place the arthroscope in locations that one cannot see with their naked eye and as such can be missed with arthrotomy. In addition, arthroscopy provides magnification of the structure on the screen allowing damage (even very small damage) to be seen that might otherwise be missed with an arthrotomy.

Research has backed up the claim that arthroscopy is superior to arthrotomy in numerous studies. Along with better visualization, there is less pain associated with arthroscopy, and a quicker healing time with less trauma to the joint. We are also able to have video and image documentation of the damage within the joint, which is not available when performing an arthrotomy.

Where is arthroscopy typically used?

At Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics we utilize arthroscopy most commonly for:
1. Evaluation of the stifle (knee) for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears and other damage to the knee
2. Patella luxations (“slipping knee cap”)
3. Shoulder joint damage and developmental orthopedic conditions of the shoulder such as osteochondritis dissecans (OC/OCD)
4. Elbow joint damage and developmental orthopedic conditions of the elbow such as developmental elbow disease (“elbow dysplasia”)
5. To aid in fractures of the joint to ensure appropriate reduction and fixation
6. Osteoarthritis evaluation and prognosis so we can get a “birds eye view” of the cartilage in the joint

While all surgeons can perform an arthrotomy, only a small portion of surgeons are skilled at arthroscopy. Dr. David Dycus and our team at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics have performed thousands of arthroscopic procedures. Because we believe in providing the best care to our patients we have made the investment to have the best arthroscopy equipment available.