Arthroscopy - FUSION VETERINARY ORTHOPEDICS

Arthroscopy

Diving deeper and ensuring better treatment with advanced orthopedic care.

To be able to look into the joint surgeons can use two different ways:

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.

Arthrotomy

This means using a scalpel blade to cut open the joint and look inside with the naked eye.

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.

Treatment

Treatment will vary pending the condition but in most situations a platelet rich plasma (PRP) and extracorporeal shockwave (ECSWT) series will be performed. This is done as a series of 3 treatments separated by 2 weeks. In addition, a period of rest and relaxation of about 8-12 weeks is needed. This means no running, jumping, or playing.

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

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.

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

Where is arthroscopy typically used?

At Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, arthroscopy is commonly used for evaluating cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, patella luxations, shoulder and elbow joint damage, developmental orthopedic conditions like osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and elbow dysplasia, aiding in joint fracture reduction and fixation, and assessing osteoarthritis. While many surgeons can perform an arthrotomy, few are skilled in arthroscopy. Dr. David Dycus and the Fusion team have performed thousands of arthroscopic procedures, using top-of-the-line equipment to provide the best patient care.

Where is arthroscopy typically used?

At Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, arthroscopy is commonly used for evaluating cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, patella luxations, shoulder and elbow joint damage, developmental orthopedic conditions like osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and elbow dysplasia, aiding in joint fracture reduction and fixation, and assessing osteoarthritis. While many surgeons can perform an arthrotomy, few are skilled in arthroscopy. Dr. David Dycus and the Fusion team have performed thousands of arthroscopic procedures, using top-of-the-line equipment to provide the best patient care.

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