Orthopedic surgeons perform arthroscopic surgery in many jointsof the extremities, most commonly the knee. Two or three incisionsare routinely made, each measuring approximately 7 mm. The kneeis inflated with fluid under pressure, with the assistance ofa pump, to facilitate visualization. Because of advances infiberoptics and instrumentation, many knee procedures (e.g.,ligament reconstruction, meniscus excision and repair, synovectomy,and removal of loose bodies) can now be performed arthroscopically,with greater ease and accuracy and fewer complications thanwith an open incision. However, as with any surgical procedure,arthroscopic surgery is not appropriate for all patients with. . . [Full Text of this Article]
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From the Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, and the Department of Public Health, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York.