What are minimally invasive orthopaedic techniques?

Minimally invasive surgery involves the use of specialized surgical tools (arthroscopic instruments) to explore and examine the inside of the joint. As a result, the orthopaedic surgeon creates small incisions to treat several conditions that cause immobility, pain and decreased physical function.

Less soft tissue trauma results in faster recovery and minimal blood loss as opposed to traditional open surgical exposures. Less invasive orthopaedic surgery makes a significant difference by creating tiny incisions over the joint to address the problem area instead of exposing the joint through an extensive incision.

Dr Grey has developed his surgical skill in mastering arthroscopic treatment of two major joints:

• The Knee
  The first arthroscopy ever performed in the 1990s was on the knee (knee arthroscopy). The procedure involves replacing damaged knee portions with prosthetic pieces (artificial components like metal-on-plastic).
• The Shoulder
  Arthroscopic shoulder surgery entails the use of an arthroscope with a light and camera attached to examine and treat the shoulder. Surgery alleviates pain as a result of extensive damage to the labrum, rotator cuff tendons, soft tissue and articular cartilage.

How do you perform minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a specialized, less invasive surgical procedure. The procedure involves making tiny incisions over the affected joint through which the entire surgery can be performed. The camera connected at the end of the arthroscope, coupled with the use of a miniature light source, helps visualise the surgical field.

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