Wrist and Elbow Arthroscopy

When you have wrist or elbow pain that just won’t quit, you may need a procedure to assess it. Hand surgeons at Henry Ford use arthroscopy to evaluate, diagnose and treat these issues.

Arthroscopy enables surgeons to evaluate joints in ways that are not possible with other testing methods. Our experience helps more people get relief from stubborn pain.

What is arthroscopy for wrist and elbow issues?

Arthroscopy is a form of minimally invasive surgery. It uses small incisions and sophisticated instruments to see inside the joint. The technique enables surgeons to access difficult-to-reach areas with less disruption to nearby healthy tissue. Patients typically experience a quick recovery with minimal pain and bleeding.

We use arthroscopic surgery to:

• Diagnose joint issues when imaging studies do not clearly explain what’s causing your symptoms.
• Treat certain issues, such as loose tissue that’s affecting joint movement as well as ligament and tendon tears.
  
  

Is wrist and elbow arthroscopy right for me?

You may benefit from wrist or elbow arthroscopic surgery if you are experiencing:

• Abnormal lump in your wrist
• Crackling or grating sensation when you move the joint
• Numbness or tingling
• Pain that’s not responding to medications or bracing
• Swelling and stiffness that make joint movement difficult

Wrist and elbow arthroscopy at Henry Ford: Why choose us?

At Henry Ford, you receive care from orthopedic doctors who completed fellowship training in hand surgery. These experts specialize in issues affecting the hand, wrist, forearm and elbow. Our experience from regularly treating common and complex wrist and elbow issues helps more patients achieve outstanding results. Meet our team.

We perform a detailed physical exam and imaging studies. These efforts help us pinpoint problem areas and determine whether wrist or elbow arthroscopy is appropriate. If it is, we explain the potential diagnosis and how you might benefit from an arthroscopic surgery. Learn more about diagnosing wrist and elbow conditions.

Wrist and elbow arthroscopy: What to expect

If wrist or elbow arthroscopic surgery is right for you, here’s what to expect:

• You receive medication to put you to sleep and temporarily block sensation to the treatment area.
• After making a small incision, surgeons insert a small instrument with a camera at the tip (arthroscope). The camera provides high-definition, magnified views of the joint and nearby tissue.
• Surgeons use the arthroscope to evaluate problem areas. Instruments at the end of the arthroscope enable them to treat certain issues, like repairing tears or removing loose tissue.
• After arthroscopy, you may need to elevate your wrist or elbow to prevent blood from pooling. We give you detailed at-home care instructions and monitor your recovery through follow-up visits.
• We coordinate any additional treatments you may need, including custom bracing or hand and upper extremity therapy. Having easy access to these services keeps your care moving forward.

Easy access to your care team

If you have questions or concerns while recovering at home, our team is easy to reach. We are available by phone during business hours on weekdays. You are also welcome to send a secure electronic message through Henry Ford’s patient portal, MyChart.

Wrist and elbow conditions we diagnose and treat using arthroscopy

Conditions we use arthroscopic surgery for include:

• Arthritis
• Bone spurs
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Excess scar tissue affecting range of motion
• Fractures
• Ganglion cysts
• Ligament tears
• Tendonitis, including tennis elbow