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Finger Joint Arthroscopy

What is Finger Joint Arthroscopy?

Finger joint arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions within the small joints of the fingers using a small camera called an arthroscope. This procedure is performed through very small incisions, typically less than 5 mm, and is similar to arthroscopy used in larger joints like the knee or shoulder, but on a smaller scale.

Indications for Finger Joint Arthroscopy

Finger joint arthroscopy is typically indicated when less invasive treatments (like splinting, medications, or physical therapy) have failed, and there is a need for direct visualization or intervention inside the joint. Common indications include:

  • Chronic joint pain with unclear cause
  • Ligament injuries or instability
  • Cartilage damage or early osteoarthritis
  • Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining), often in rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis
  • Removal of loose bodies (e.g., bone or cartilage fragments)
  • Joint stiffness or locking
  • Evaluation and treatment of intra-articular fractures
  • Joint infections (for lavage and debridement)

It is especially useful when imaging (like MRI or X-ray) is inconclusive, but symptoms persist.

Procedure for Finger Joint Arthroscopy

In general, the procedure for finger joint arthroscopy will involve the following steps:

  • Local, regional (nerve block), or general anesthesia is administered depending on the case.
  • One or more tiny incisions (portals) are made near the affected finger joint.
  • A thin, pencil-sized arthroscope with a camera is inserted through one of the portals.
  • The camera sends live video images to a monitor, giving the surgeon a magnified view of the inside of the joint.
  • The surgeon carefully examines the cartilage, ligaments, synovium, and bone surfaces inside the joint.
  • If necessary, miniature surgical instruments are inserted through additional portals to:
    • Remove bone spurs or loose fragments
    • Debride damaged cartilage or synovium
    • Treat ligament injuries
    • Flush the joint if infection is suspected
  • Instruments and the arthroscope are removed.
  • Incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips and covered with a sterile dressing.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

After finger joint arthroscopy, the patient is usually able to go home the same day with the finger bandaged and possibly splinted to protect the joint. Mild swelling, soreness, and stiffness are common initially. Pain is generally managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Within a few days, the patient may begin gentle range-of-motion exercises, often under the guidance of a hand therapist, to prevent stiffness and promote recovery. Stitches are typically removed after about 7–10 days. Full recovery time varies depending on the condition treated, but many patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, while more complex cases may take several months of rehabilitation.

Risks and Complications

Risks and complications associated with finger joint arthroscopy include:

  • Infection
  • Nerve or tendon injury
  • Joint stiffness
  • Persistent pain or swelling
  • Bleeding or hematoma
  • Failure to relieve symptoms

Benefits

Finger joint arthroscopy offers several benefits over traditional open surgery, including:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Smaller incisions/scars
  • Less postoperative pain
  • Faster recovery time
  • Lower risk of infection
  • More precise diagnosis and treatment
  • Preservation of soft tissue
  • Early return to daily activities

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