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Wrist arthroscopy. Indications and clinical applications
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Wrist arthroscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool, avoiding further surgery in over half of patients. However, it may not prevent open treatment for significant carpal instability.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Wrist arthroscopy offers a minimally invasive approach to diagnose and treat wrist conditions.
- Evaluating the utility of arthroscopy in a clinical setting is crucial for surgical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic benefits of wrist arthroscopy.
- To determine the rate at which arthroscopy avoids the need for open surgery (arthrotomy).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 128 wrist arthroscopies performed between January 1988 and July 1991.
- Analysis of diagnostic indications, pre-operative diagnoses, and subsequent surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- Diagnostic sensitivity was 67% and specificity 100% for unknown diagnoses.
- Arthrotomy was avoided in 54% of patients, and further surgery in 52%.
- Arthroscopic procedures included débridement, lysis of adhesions, and synovectomy.
Conclusions:
- Wrist arthroscopy effectively aids diagnosis and can obviate the need for open surgery in many cases.
- Arthroscopy is less likely to avoid open treatment in patients with significant pre-operative carpal instability.