Wrist arthroscopy is a state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical technique that enables the surgeon to directly visualize, diagnose, and treat a wide range of wrist disorders using a high-definition miniature camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments.
Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions and extensive tissue dissection, wrist arthroscopy is performed through tiny incisions measuring just 2–3 millimeters. Through these small portals, the surgeon can access the joint spaces with remarkable precision, minimizing trauma to surrounding structures such as tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
Because of its precision and gentle technique, wrist arthroscopy offers numerous advantages:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Reduced postoperative pain and swelling
- Shorter hospital stay or daycare procedure
- Quicker recovery and early return to work or sports
- Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment
Common Indications for Wrist Arthroscopy
Wrist arthroscopy is useful for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It is commonly indicated for patients with:
- Chronic wrist pain of uncertain origin
- TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) tears
- Scapholunate or lunotriquetral ligament injuries
- Carpal instability
- Synovitis or inflammatory joint disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- Fractures involving the distal radius or carpal bones
- Ganglion cysts arising from the wrist joint
- Early degenerative or post-traumatic arthritis
Procedures Performed Using Wrist Arthroscopy
With advanced instrumentation and visualization, several precise procedures can be performed arthroscopically, such as:
- Diagnostic inspection and biopsy
- Synovectomy (removal of inflamed joint lining)
- TFCC repair or debridement
- Scapholunate ligament repair or reconstruction
- Distal scaphoid resection
- Partial carpal fusions for localized arthritis
- Arthroscopy-assisted distal radius fracture fixation
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Most wrist arthroscopy procedures are performed on a day-care basis, allowing patients to go home the same day. A light dressing or splint is applied for a short duration, followed by early wrist mobilization under guided physiotherapy.
With proper postoperative care and adherence to the rehabilitation plan, most patients experience significant pain relief, improved motion, and enhanced wrist function within a few weeks.