Wrist Arthroscopy

Initially, you’ll come in for consultation with one of our orthopaedic surgeons. They’ll assess your condition and recommend whether arthroscopic wrist surgery is the right route for you. Diagnosing wrist conditions can be a complex process, as symptoms often overlap with other issues. A thorough medical history and physical examination are the first steps in identifying the problem. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, any recent injuries, and your daily activities. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans may be ordered to get a detailed view of the wrist’s internal structures. In some cases, wrist arthroscopy may be performed to directly visualise the joint and diagnose conditions like ligament tears or cartilage damage. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Preparing for surgery

You may be asked to attend a pre-admission consultation before your surgery, to best prepare you for the operation.

During this consultation, your surgeon will review any medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements) you are currently taking. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, blood thinning medication or supplements in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Additionally, you’ll need to stop smoking, as it increases the risk of complications, like infection.

Your doctor may also perform tests, such as blood tests, X-Rays, ultrasound, or an electrocardiogram (ECG), to evaluate your overall fitness for the surgery. If you have specific health concerns, further tests might be required.

At this appointment, you will receive important information, including:

• Instructions on what to eat and drink before your procedure (e.g., fasting for six hours, depending on the type of anaesthetic used)
• An estimated timeline for your full recovery
• Guidance on any medications you should start or stop before surgery
• What to expect after your wrist arthroscopy

Your consultant will also discuss the potential risks linked to the arthroscopic surgery and address any questions you may have. Finally, you will be asked to sign a consent form to confirm your agreement to proceed with the arthroscopy.

Wrist arthroscopy is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon will make a number of small laparoscopic (keyhole) incisions on the wrist and a sterile solution will be pumped into the area to give greater visibility The arthroscope is passed through one of the incisions in order to assess the area.

If an identifiable cause is detected during the surgery, the surgeon is sometimes able to carry out the necessary repairs during the same procedure. This is done by passing specialised instruments through the remaining incisions. Any damage can then be repaired and/or cartilage, bone and tissue removed. In some cases, further treatment may be needed if a diagnosis is not reached during the procedure.

The whole procedure usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Your surgeon will instruct you on how to best care for your wrist joint after the procedure. These instructions may include:

• The length of recovery time you’ll need (typically 4-6 weeks). Proper immobilisation and rehabilitation practices are crucial for an injured wrist to ensure effective healing and prevent re-injury
• The medicine you’ll need to take to reduce swelling and help with any pain relief
• How long you’ll need to keep your leg elevated
• Booking a follow-up appointment with one of our orthopaedic surgeons to survey the recovering wrist injury and assess whether or not you’ll need a physical therapist to help with your recovery journey
• Whether certain medications you’re on may impact your recovery

Outcomes and prognosis

The outcome and prognosis for wrist conditions largely depend on the severity of the injury and the effectiveness of the treatment. Mild wrist sprains often heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with rehabilitation exercises. More severe conditions, such as torn ligaments or fractures, may require surgical intervention. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals can regain full function and mobility in their wrist joint. However, some conditions may lead to chronic pain and limited mobility if not adequately addressed. Early intervention and adherence to a comprehensive treatment plan are key to achieving the best possible outcomes.