Arthroscopic Surgery

Sports medicine surgery is a special type of orthopedic surgery commonly used to treat sports-related injuries. When an injury requires surgical intervention, arthroscopic surgery is usually preferred method of treatment.

Arthroscopic surgery, also called "keyhole surgery" uses small incisions to provide access to damaged joints for repair or removal of damaged tissue. Arthroscopy avoids the tissue trauma associated with larger incisions that disrupt muscle fibers. Recovery after arthroscopic surgery tends to be faster than after conventional open techniques, allowing patients to return home the same day.

With advancements in the instruments and devices used for arthroscopic surgery, Billings Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can address an increasing number of joint problems using these techniques. We rely on arthroscopic techniques for treatment of a variety of disorders.

Arthroscopic treatments include:

Knee

• Meniscus tears
• Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
• Repair of cartilage defects
• Shaving of torn and damaged cartilage
• Release of contracted tissues

Shoulder

• Shaving of bone spurs
• Repair or rotator cuff tears
• Stabilization of dislocating shoulders
• Treatment of biceps tendon problems
• Shaving of torn and damaged cartilage
• Frozen shoulder release

Elbow

• Removal of loose bodies
• Release of elbow stiffness
• Shaving of torn and damaged cartilage

Ankle

• Removal of loose bodies
• Repair of cartilage defects
• Shaving of inflamed tissues

Wrist

• Shaving of torn tissues