Places of use on the wrist
The insertion of the arthroscope can be performed at different joint locations on the hand. In addition to the actual wrist between the forearm and the carpal bones (Articulatio radiocarpalis), arthroscopy of the smaller joints in the hand can also be performed, such as the joint between the two rows of carpal bones (Articulatio mediocarpalis), the joint gap between the ulna and radius (Articulatio radioulnaris) and the basic joints of the fingers between the metacarpophalangeal bones and the phalanges (Articulationes metacarpophalangeales). Particular care and control must be taken with the smaller joints, as there is an increased risk of injury to the structures (e.g. nerves) located there.
Possible fields of application of arthroscopy
With the help of arthroscopy, the cartilage surfaces, bones and ligament structures of the individual parts of the wrist can be displayed and examined. An important point is the presentation of the inner layer of the joint capsule (synovial membrane – Membrana synovialis) and the synovial fluid. Here a possible inflammation of the synovial membrane can be detected and validated by taking samples.
Arthroscopy can also be used to visualize injuries to the joint cartilage. Unstable cartilage parts can be cut out, as well as roughened cartilage areas can be grinded off and parts of the cartilage and bone can be drilled to allow stem cells to rebuild the cartilage on the surface. Furthermore, injuries and ruptures of the wrist ligaments can be identified and treated.
Damage to the ligaments connecting the carpal bones can lead to instability in the wrist. In the course of arthroscopy, ligaments can be reduced (brought into the correct position) and reattached with sutures. Another area of application is the removal of ganglia in the wrist.
Ganglions (excess leg) often occur as a result of overstraining weak points of the joint capsule on the back of the hand. Arthroscopy is also successfully used to treat fractures of the radius (radius) and the scaphoid.
