Over the past five years, arthroscopy
has become what many consider the fastest growing subspecialty in small
animal orthopedics. Arthroscopy is the most advanced procedure for
both diagnosis and surgery in dogs with chronic lameness, joint pain or
instability and swelling. The advantages of arthroscopy are obvious,
it allows for greater accuracy, flexibility and visibility of joints
or interior anatomy, there is minimal scaring, decreased pain, and an earlier
return to function, and, most importantly. Arthroscopy is used in the
shoulder, elbow, carpus, hip, stifle and tarsus of dogs and cats and patients
undergoing these procedures typically have shorter recovery times and often
may go home the same day.
Your veterinarian inserts a tube-like
camera called an arthroscope into the joint, which then can show changes
in the cartilage which may not show up in x-rays, because cartilage is not
mineralised with calcium.
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is
not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making
a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for
confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
