Wrist Arthroscopy

Keyhole surgery is becoming more popular in many areas of the body. A small telescope, measuring less than 3mm in diameter, can be inserted into the wrist joint and provide information to the surgeon about the structure and condition of the joint.

Wrist arthroscopy is used to diagnose the causes of wrist symptoms, assess the condition of the internal structure, stage how advanced or early certain conditions are, and treat some conditions without an open operation.

It is usually performed under a regional anaesthetic, as a day-case procedure, and is often regarded as an 'information gathering' exercise for surgeons. This can be very helpful in making decisions about any further treatments.

Wrist arthroscopy is a relatively safe procedure with few and infrequent complications. Patients generally just need a light bandage for a week or two, and rarely require stitches.