Hip and knee problems affect millions of people every year. While there are various non-invasive methods of managing the pain and lack of mobility, there are instances when surgical intervention is required.

If you’re considering surgical treatment, you may want to consider arthroscopy as an alternative to traditional open surgery.

Below, we take a look at both options and provide the pros and cons of each.

Open Surgery vs. Arthroscopy Surgery

Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It involves the use of specialized small tools and a tiny camera. The tools and camera are inserted through small incisions. This minimizes damage to the tissues in the area.

There is therefore minimal swelling and trauma to the area. Scarring and pain are also reduced, and recovery is quicker. This type of surgery is often applied in orthopedic medicine for tendon repair as well as other minor procedures.

The benefits of this approach include:

• Minimal invasion, therefore reduced damage to tissue and minimal scarring
• Smaller incision, therefore reduced risk of infection
• Minimal damage to tissues, thus quicker recovery times
• Reduced pain and better function following the procedure

The cons of this approach include:

Due to restricted access to the surgical site, intricate procedures like tendon repair and nerve grafts are difficult.

• The application of specialized equipment and techniques means only specialists can perform procedures.

Traditional Open Surgery

Traditional open surgery makes use of standard tools and larger incisions. This approach provides better access and is often reserved for more complex procedures such as joint replacement, nerve repair, or addressing tendon damage.

Because of the application of larger instruments and incisions, damage to tissues is more extensive. Recovery is therefore longer, and patients have larger scars.

The benefits of this approach include:

• Better access to the surgical site, making it less challenging to perform more complex procedures such as nerve repair
• Allows for the removal of more scar tissue and placement of larger implants.

The cons of this approach include:

• Greater tissue damage due to larger incisions and the use of traditional tools. Patients suffer significant scarring, and recovery times are longer.
• The risk of infections and developing complications is higher due to the larger incisions.

Conditions That Can Be Treated

Both approaches can be used to treat various conditions. The approach applied will depend on your specific needs as well as the complexity of your case. Some examples of conditions where either approach may be used include:

• Injuries to ligaments
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Joint inflammation
• Arthritis
• Injuries to tendons

What Option is Best for You?

The best way to determine which option is best for you is by consulting with a surgeon. You can have all your expectations and concerns addressed so you can make an informed decision. Some key questions to ask during consultation include:

• What can I expect from each approach for my condition?
• How many surgeries have you performed for my condition? For example, if you’re looking to get knee surgery and want to explore knee arthroscopy, it is important to choose a surgeon with experience in performing this procedure.
• Are there risks of complications? If so, what are they, and how can they be prevented or addressed?
• How long can I expect to recover with each approach?

Explore the Benefits of Arthroscopy Bellevue Treatment with Dr. Chris Boone, MD

Take the first step on your path to recovery by contacting us, Dr. Chris Boone, MD. Schedule a consultation with an experienced and skilled orthopedic surgeon and get an accurate diagnosis of your health issues.

Explore treatment options, including minimally invasive methods. We’re dedicated to guiding our patients on the path to recovery.