sports medicine newsletter
Close up of arthroscopic
instruments and surgeon at work
Arthroscopic surgery requires the use of a small specialized pencil sized fiber optic camera. This camera can be inserted into various joints using one or more quarter inch incisions.
Common arthroscopic operations are for tendonitis, tears of the rotator cuff, for reconstructive arthroscopic repair of ligaments, and tears of cartilage.
Osteochondrosis dissecans is a less common condition that is also caused by excessive throwing and may be the source of the pain on the outside of the elbow.
Most of the procedures are performed with the patient receiving general anesthesia (put to sleep) but in some cases a local anesthesia can be used. As technology has improved, specialized equipment and techniques have been developed to allow some surgeons to perform complex surgeries with an arthroscope. These more complicated arthroscopic procedures require additional training, experience and technical expertise.
Most surgeons performing these
arthroscopic surgeries have
completed fellowship training in
Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine.
Most surgeons performing these arthroscopic surgeries have completed fellowship training in Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine. Additionally, they are members of professional groups. These societies and associations often require members to demonstrate scientific leadership, participate in teaching, active research and a follow through of continuing education. See below for links to organizations related to sports med and arthroscopy.
The instrument for Minimally-
invasive arthroscopic Surgery

Bio of Author: Article courtesy of Vic Goradia M.D, a fellowship trained surgeon in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Knee & Shoulder Reconstructive Surgery with a CAQ (Certificate of Added Qualification). For more information about his qualifications please visit www.GoOrtho.net.