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Wrist Arthroscopy Surgery in India

Minimally invasive camera-guided surgery to diagnose and treat wrist problems.

Overview

Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small fiber-optic camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments inserted through tiny portals to diagnose and treat a wide variety of wrist conditions. The wrist is one of the most complex joints in the human body, containing eight small carpal bones, multiple ligaments, triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), and numerous joint surfaces that can be difficult to fully evaluate with imaging studies alone. Arthroscopy allows direct visualization of these structures with magnification, enabling accurate diagnosis and precise treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Dr. Kumar performs wrist arthroscopy for numerous conditions including triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears, scapholunate ligament injuries, lunotriquetral ligament tears, wrist ganglion cysts arising from joint lining, synovitis and inflammatory conditions, loose body removal, fracture evaluation and treatment, cartilage damage assessment and repair, and chronic wrist pain of unclear etiology. The procedure is particularly valuable for diagnosing subtle ligament injuries and cartilage lesions that may not be visible on MRI scans. Wrist arthroscopy can be both diagnostic (to identify the source of pain) and therapeutic (to repair damaged structures). The surgery is performed through 4-6 small portals (each 3-4mm) positioned around the wrist to access different joint compartments. Dr. Kumar uses high-definition camera systems with magnification to systematically inspect the radiocarpal joint (between forearm and wrist bones), midcarpal joint (between two rows of wrist bones), and distal radioulnar joint (between the two forearm bones at the wrist). Common arthroscopic treatments include TFCC debridement or repair, ligament reconstruction, synovectomy for inflammatory synovitis, removal of loose bodies, debridement of cartilage lesions, ganglion cyst excision, and fracture fixation assistance. Radiofrequency and laser devices allow precise tissue removal and shaping. Patients benefit from the minimally invasive nature of wrist arthroscopy compared to traditional open wrist surgery. The small incisions result in less post-operative pain, reduced scarring, faster healing, earlier return to function, and lower complication rates. Recovery varies depending on the specific procedure performed, ranging from 6-8 weeks for simple debridement to 3-4 months for ligament repairs. Physical therapy is essential for optimal recovery to restore wrist strength, flexibility, and function. Many patients can return to desk work within 2-3 weeks with proper splinting. At Arthoscenter, Dr. Kumar achieves excellent results with wrist arthroscopy using state-of-the-art equipment and refined surgical techniques. Diagnostic accuracy exceeds 95%, and therapeutic procedures show success rates of 75-90% depending on the specific pathology treated. Outcomes are best when arthroscopy is performed early before severe degenerative changes develop. Dr. Kumar's expertise in this technically demanding procedure ensures thorough evaluation and precise treatment while minimizing complications such as nerve injury, tendon damage, or joint stiffness.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Chronic wrist pain not improving with rest

Wrist clicking or popping with movement

Weakness in grip strength

Swelling on ulnar (pinky) side of wrist

Pain worse with twisting motions

Limited range of motion

Instability or giving way sensation

Pain with weight bearing on hand

Failed conservative treatment for 3+ months

Unclear diagnosis despite imaging

Procedure Details

Duration

45-90 minutes

Anesthesia

Regional Block or General Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

MRI or CT arthrogram to evaluate ligaments and cartilage. Nerve conduction studies if nerve compression suspected.

Surgical Steps

1

Regional anesthesia (nerve block) or general

2

Arm positioning and sterile draping

3

Portal placement (4-6 small incisions 3-4mm)

4

Joint distraction using finger traps and weights

5

Systematic radiocarpal joint inspection

6

Midcarpal joint evaluation

7

DRUJ (distal radioulnar joint) assessment

8

Treatment of identified pathology

9

TFCC repair/debridement if needed

10

Ligament reconstruction if required

11

Thorough irrigation

12

Portal closure and splint application

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-2

Immobilization

Splint wear, pain control, finger exercises

Week 3-6

Early motion

Gentle wrist range of motion, light activities

Week 7-12

Strengthening

Progressive grip strengthening, functional tasks

Month 4-6

Full recovery

Return to sports and heavy work

Tips for Faster Recovery

Splint compliance critical first 2-3 weeks

Elevate hand above heart when resting

Ice 15-20 minutes every 2 hours first week

Maintain finger motion to prevent stiffness

Physical therapy essential for recovery

Avoid heavy gripping for 6-8 weeks

Gradual return to activities

Most return to desk work 2-3 weeks

Sports clearance typically 3-4 months

Watch for nerve symptoms (numbness/tingling)

Recovery time varies by procedure performed

Excellent outcomes in most patients

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.What is the recovery time?

Recovery varies by procedure: 6-8 weeks for simple debridement, 3-4 months for ligament repairs. Most return to desk work in 2-3 weeks.

Q2.What is the success rate?

75-90% success depending on pathology. Over 95% diagnostic accuracy. Excellent outcomes at Arthoscenter with experienced care.

Q3.What is the cost?

Cost ranges ₹80,000-1.8 lakhs. PMJAY/BSKY accepted. Book ₹999 consultation.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered