While many people associate this technique specifically with arthroscopy knee surgery, it is actually used to treat a wide variety of joint conditions across the body. The shoulder and knee are the most commonly treated joints, but surgeons can also view and treat problems in the hip, wrist, ankle, and elbow. This versatility makes it an essential tool for our practice, allowing us to serve a diverse group of patients ranging from middle-aged individuals to active seniors.

One of the most common procedures we perform is arthroscopic meniscus surgery. The meniscus is a tough, rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between your shinbone and thighbone. It can be easily torn during sports or through the natural aging process. Through arthroscopy, we can trim or repair the torn meniscus with high precision. Additionally, we treat rotator cuff tears, recurrent shoulder dislocations, and cartilage damage. By addressing these issues with minimally invasive techniques, we help prevent further deterioration of the joint and improve long-term mobility.

Patients often ask us about arthroscopic knee replacement surgery when researching their options for severe arthritis. It is important to clarify that total knee replacement is generally a major surgery that cannot be performed entirely through an arthroscope. However, arthroscopy is often used as a treatment before a replacement becomes necessary, or to address specific issues that might mimic the need for a replacement.

In some cases, arthroscopy can clear out debris, smooth rough bone surfaces, or repair specific damaged tissues that are causing pain, potentially delaying the need for a total joint replacement. This is particularly relevant for our patients aged 40 to 65 who wish to maintain their native joints for as long as possible. If you are searching for an arthroscopic surgeon near you because you want to explore alternatives to total joint replacement, our team can evaluate your specific condition to determine if a minimally invasive scope is the right step for your joint health.

For the "weekend warrior"—those of us who balance full-time jobs with a passion for sports and activity—recovery time is a critical factor in choosing a treatment. Because arthroscopic surgery involves smaller incisions, there is significantly less trauma to the connective tissue surrounding the joint. This typically results in less post-operative swelling and scarring, allowing you to begin rehabilitation much sooner than you would after open surgery.

Our physicians, being athletes themselves, understand the mental and physical challenge of being sidelined. We tailor our recovery plans to fit your specific goals, whether that means getting back to the tennis court, the golf course, or running trails. While recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure and the patient's overall health, most patients return to light activity within a few weeks. We guide you through every step of the rehabilitation process, ensuring you heal correctly so you can return to your sport with confidence.

Understanding the financial aspect of healthcare is important, and many patients have questions regarding arthroscopic surgery cost. The cost can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the facility fee, and the anesthesia required. However, because arthroscopy is often performed as an outpatient procedure, it is generally more cost-effective than inpatient open surgeries that require a hospital stay.

St. Vincent's Orthopedics accepts most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and Medicare. We are experienced in working with these providers to help you understand your coverage and out-of-pocket responsibilities. We believe that high-quality, physician-directed care should be accessible. Our administrative team is happy to assist you in verifying your benefits so you can focus on your recovery rather than worrying about unexpected expenses.