Overview
Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the wrist joint. Using a small camera called an arthroscope, surgeons can visualize the internal structures of the wrist, repair damaged tissue, and remove loose fragments without large incisions.
In Korea, wrist arthroscopy is performed in advanced orthopedic centers by highly skilled surgeons. Hospitals use state-of-the-art imaging, precision surgical tools, and sterile operating rooms, ensuring minimal pain, faster recovery, and optimal joint function. Postoperative rehabilitation programs help patients regain mobility, strength, and flexibility efficiently.
What is Wrist Arthroscopy?
Wrist arthroscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera (arthroscope) through small incisions (portals) around the wrist. The camera transmits images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to:
- Diagnose wrist injuries such as ligament tears, cartilage damage, triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries, or ganglion cysts
- Repair or remove damaged tissue
- Perform procedures like ligament reconstruction, synovial biopsy, or removal of loose bodies
- Treat chronic wrist instability or arthritis-related changes
Key points:
- Minimally invasive alternative to open wrist surgery
- Can be used for diagnosis, treatment, or both
- Reduces pain, recovery time, and scarring
- Commonly performed for athletes, trauma patients, or patients with degenerative wrist conditions
What are the benefits?
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions and reduced infection risk
- Faster recovery compared to open surgery
- Accurate diagnosis of wrist joint conditions
- Pain relief, improved mobility, and restored wrist function
- ✅ Allows simultaneous diagnosis and treatment during the procedure
- ✅ Short hospital stay; often outpatient or same-day discharge
- ✅ In Korea, high-precision arthroscopy ensures optimal outcomes with minimal complications
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Wrist Arthroscopy?
- ➤ Preoperative evaluation: Blood tests, X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
- ➤ Discuss current medications, particularly blood thinners or anticoagulants
- ➤ Fasting instructions if general anesthesia is planned
- ➤ Preoperative counseling about procedure, risks, post-op care, and rehabilitation
- ➤ Arrange for transportation, as mobility may be limited post-surgery
2) What happens during the procedure Wrist Arthroscopy?
- ✅ Performed under general or regional anesthesia
- ✅ Small incisions (portals) are made around the wrist
- ✅ Arthroscope is inserted to visualize the joint on a monitor
- ✅ Surgical instruments are used to:
- Repair ligament or TFCC tears
- Remove loose cartilage or bone fragments
- Smooth rough surfaces or inflamed tissue
- Treat chronic instability or arthritis changes
- ✅ Procedure duration typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity
3) What happens after Wrist Arthroscopy?
- ➤ Patients are monitored in recovery for a few hours
- ➤ Pain management with prescribed medications
- ➤ Ice, elevation, and rest help reduce swelling
- ➤ Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery to restore range of motion, strength, and wrist function
- ➤ Patients usually resume daily activities gradually within weeks, depending on procedure complexity
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Infection at the incision site
- ➤ Blood clots (rare)
- ➤ Stiffness or limited range of motion
- ➤ Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
- ➤ Persistent pain or limited improvement
Benefits:
- ✅ Minimally invasive with smaller scars and faster recovery
- ✅ Accurate diagnosis and treatment of wrist joint issues
- ✅ Reduces pain and restores mobility
- ✅ Early return to daily activities or sports
- ✅ In Korea, advanced arthroscopy minimizes complications and ensures optimal rehabilitation
Recovery and Outlook
- Hospital stay: Often outpatient; some cases may require overnight observation
- Activity: Gradual return to daily activities, avoiding heavy lifting initially
- Physical therapy: Focused on strength, flexibility, and range of motion
- Full recovery: Usually 4–6 weeks for minor repairs, up to 3 months for complex ligament or TFCC reconstruction
- Lifestyle: Follow rehabilitation instructions, avoid high-impact activity early, and maintain healthy wrist mechanics
When To Call the Doctor
- ➤ Severe or persistent pain not relieved by medication
- ➤ Redness, swelling, or discharge from incision site
- ➤ Fever or signs of infection
- ➤ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or wrist
- ➤ Difficulty moving the wrist despite rehabilitation
Best Korea Option / Process
- ✅ Korea provides world-class orthopedic and sports medicine centers
- ✅ Hospitals offer minimally invasive wrist arthroscopy with expert post-op care
- ✅ Advanced equipment ensures high precision, reduced complications, and optimal outcomes
- ✅ Post-operative care includes physical therapy, pain management, and monitoring for complications
- ✅ International patients benefit from VIP services, English-speaking staff, and coordinated care
- ✅ High success rates and short recovery times make Korea a preferred destination for wrist arthroscopy