The field of orthopedics has undergone significant evolution over the past 20 years. In the past, orthopedic surgeons primarily focused on trauma and accident cases. Over time, the specialization of joint replacement emerged, followed by the development of expertise in spine surgery. More recently, arthroscopic surgery has become an essential sub-specialty, particularly in knee surgery.
Patients need to understand that as scientific knowledge and surgical techniques continue to advance, arthroscopy has become an integral part of modern orthopedic surgery. Arthroscopy involves minimally invasive procedures using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to treat joint conditions. This “keyhole” surgery is performed through tiny incisions, offering the advantages of minimal blood loss, quicker recovery, and precise results.
Arthroscopic surgery is commonly used to treat a range of knee issues, such as meniscus tears, ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears, PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) tears, and patella-related conditions. Similarly, shoulder joint arthroscopy is frequently performed to address painful conditions like rotator cuff tears, labral injuries (such as SLAP tears), and recurrent shoulder dislocations.
Typically, patients with knee or shoulder pain first consult an orthopedic surgeon. The orthopedic surgeon diagnoses the problem, often recommending an MRI if needed. If surgery is necessary, an orthopedic surgeon will work with an arthroscopy specialist, who brings the required equipment and performs the surgery in the orthopedic surgeon’s facility.
However, this approach can have its drawbacks for the patient. One disadvantage is that modern scientific practices may not be fully applied during the post-surgery follow-up or physiotherapy protocols, as they are not always customized to the specific surgical plan for each patient. This gap can affect the patient’s overall recovery and outcomes.
A better approach is for patients to directly consult an arthroscopy specialist when they recognize a major issue with their knee or shoulder joint. By bringing the MRI results, patients can receive a detailed consultation about the procedure, including the potential benefits, risks, expected recovery time, and expected outcomes. Furthermore, patients are informed upfront about the costs of imported devices (such as those used for meniscus repair), ensuring that the most effective materials are available for the surgery. After surgery, physiotherapy protocols can also be tailored to the patient’s specific needs based on the surgical approach, leading to better and more personalized care.
Ultimately, this model benefits the patient, as they receive the best possible treatment, from expert arthroscopy surgeons, with a customized approach throughout the entire process. It is important to note that not all orthopedic surgeons are trained in arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopy is a specialized skill that requires years of dedicated practice and experience. Surgeons who focus primarily on arthroscopic surgery refine their techniques over time and often specialize exclusively in this field.
Therefore, when patients are advised to undergo arthroscopic surgery by an orthopedic surgeon for knee or shoulder issues, they should ensure they know who the arthroscopy surgeon is or consider directly consulting a trusted arthroscopy specialist to achieve optimal surgical outcomes.
Dr. Pranjal Pipara is an experienced arthroscopy surgeon who completed a fellowship in knee and shoulder arthroscopy at Evangelisches Krankenhaus in Vienna in 2013-2014.
Dr. Daivesh Shah is another skilled arthroscopy surgeon with training at multiple prestigious institutions in India, Korea, and Norway. He also specializes in cartilage surgery.
Both surgeons are available full-time at Orthosport Hospital.
