Minimally-Invasive Surgery Procedures
A sports injury or chronic pain that is associated with using your hands and legs could require treatment through an orthopedic doctor. A doctor will examine the body part, take x-rays, and recommend a treatment regimen. In some cases, treatment may require surgery. Learn how minimally-invasive surgery is often used to minimize downtime and discomfort.
A Standard Surgery
An orthopedic doctor will not recommend surgery unless it is crucial to the corrective process. A standard surgery involves making an incision along the area that is injured. This type of opening may result in permanent scarring that is prominent, a long recovery time, and excessive pain.
Sometimes, a standard surgery is the only viable option for a particular injury. A severe break or a chronic injury that has resulted in a bone deformity may require a surgeon to directly access the injured area.
A Minimally-Invasive Surgery
A minimally-invasive surgery uses small incisions, thin needles, and endoscopes to perform the surgical procedure. A fractured bone, torn ligaments, carpal tunnel syndrome, and rotator cuff injuries may qualify for a minimally-invasive surgery.
An endoscope is similar to a camera and will allow a surgeon to see inside of a person's body, while they are performing surgery. Many athletes or individuals who cannot be out of work for a long duration may opt for a minimally-invasive surgery.
What Can Occur
The scars that are associated with a minimally-invasive surgery will likely be less severe than those produced after a standard surgery. Since less incisions are made and the cuts may be short in length, there won't be as much scar tissue to contend with after healing has begun.
Due to a patient experiencing less trauma than if they were to undergo a major surgery, pain is kept to a minimum. During a minor surgery, a local anesthesia may be used to numb the area where the surgeon will make incisions. Some medical practices may offer outpatient services, if a surgery is going to be minor.
An orthopedic surgeon will explain the risks involved with both a standard and a minimally-invasive surgery if a patient is going to have the opportunity to choose between both procedures. Some people automatically assume that a minor surgery will not pose any type of risk. A surgeon will take all of the precautions necessary to ensure that a procedure goes smoothly, but there is still the risk of infection, if wound care is not conducted properly.
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