Minimally Invasive Hand and Wrist Surgery
Arthroscopic wrist surgery is a minimally invasive form of surgery that can be used to treat a number of conditions affecting the hand and wrist, including arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Arthroscopic surgery has numerous advantages over other forms of surgery, but it is still preferable to avoid the use of surgery whenever possible. 
How Arthroscopic Surgery Works
Arthroscopic wrist surgery allows the surgeon to operate on the wrist without creating large incisions or opening up the wrist. During this procedure, the doctor makes one or more tiny incisions near the affected part of the wrist. Then, the doctor inserts a camera in order to view the joint, and tiny tools in order to operate.
Arthroscopic surgery is performed in an outpatient setting; there is no hospital stay. It is usually performed under local anesthesia and sedation, instead of general anesthesia.
After surgery, patients will have some downtime. It will be necessary to avoid activities that make use of the wrists for several days, such as typing and cooking. As a result, most people are away from work for several days. In many cases, patients can return to work in as little as a week. However, it will be several weeks until a full recovery is made, and physical therapy is often necessary.
Benefits of Hand and Wrist Surgery
It is preferable to use arthroscopic wrist surgery whenever surgery is necessary because there are numerous benefits to this type of surgery as opposed to more invasive forms of surgery. Advantages include:
- Highly effective
- Lower risk of side effects, including bleeding
- No large scar
- No hospital stay
- No anesthesia
- Shorter downtime
Choosing a Course of Treatment
Although it is preferable to use arthroscopic wrist surgery whenever possible, it is even more preferable to treat hand and wrist problems without resorting to surgery. The majority of issues can be addressed without surgery, which results in lower costs, less downtime, and incurring fewer risks. 
Some conservative methods that are often successful include:
- Splinting – Immobilizes the wrist in order to allow it to heal
- Physical therapy – Stretches and exercises can restore mobility and prevent inflammation. Regularly practicing the exercises learned during physical therapy can help prevent flare-ups of symptoms.
- Medication – Medications like Aleve and Advil are often effective at relieving inflammation. Patients should not begin to take such medications on a long-term basis without first consulting with a physician.
If such methods are inappropriate or ineffective, then the physician may discuss the possibility of surgical treatment.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about whether arthroscopic wrist surgery is right for you. To schedule your consultation with the top surgeon in Orange County, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.
