Minimally invasive orthopaedic and arthroscopic procedures are used by Virginia Orthopaedic & Spine Specialists in the treatment and diagnoses of injuries and diseases to bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles and tendons in the ankle, hip, knee, hand, shoulder, elbow or wrist. A minimally invasive medical procedure is defined as one that is carried out by entering the body through the skin or through a body cavity or anatomical opening, but with the smallest damage possible to these structures. Minimally invasive orthopaedic surgeries are technically demanding, so it’s important to request a physician who has considerable experience operating in this fashion.
Most minimally invasive orthopaedic surgeries are done with the use of an arthroscope which is a special thin device designed for viewing and treating problems inside a joint. This arthroscope is equipped with a miniature camera and special tools to perform the minimally invasive surgery. With the arthroscope, the surgeon can cut, shave or remove tissue or bone that are causing the patient discomfort. Not all patients are appropriate candidates for less invasive orthopaedic surgeries or procedures. Each patient is evaluated on an individual basis, your Bon Secours orthopaedic surgeon will help you determine if a less invasive surgery is appropriate for you.