We are dedicated to providing advanced orthopaedic care for your pets. One of the advanced services we offer is veterinary arthroscopy—a minimally invasive procedure that allows us to diagnose and treat joint conditions with precision and care.
What is an arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to examine and treat the interior of a joint. During the procedure, a small, specialised instrument called an arthroscope—a thin tube with a camera and light—is inserted into the joint through a small incision. The arthroscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing our veterinarians to thoroughly assess the joint’s condition and perform necessary treatments with minimal invasiveness.
Why is arthroscopy performed?
Arthroscopy is recommended for pets showing signs of joint pain or dysfunction, including:
- Lameness: licking or favouring one limb over another.
- Joint swelling: visible swelling around a joint, indicating inflammation or injury.
- Reduced Mobility: Difficulty moving, stiffness, or reluctance to engage in normal activities.
- Pain: signs of discomfort or pain when the joint is touched or moved.
- Chronic arthritis is a persistent joint inflammation that does not respond to standard treatments.
- Unexplained Joint Abnormalities: Abnormalities observed on imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, that require further investigation.
Common conditions diagnosed with bronchoscopy:
Osteoarthritis
Degenerative joint disease causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
Ligament Tears
Damage to ligaments, such as the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which can lead to joint instability
Meniscal Injuries
Damage to the meniscus, a cartilage structure that cushions the joint.
Joint Infections
Identification and treatment of infections within the joint space.
Cartilage Damage
Identification and treatment of infections within the joint space.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
A developmental condition where bone and cartilage fragments become loose within the joint.
Benefits of arthroscopy:
- Minimally Invasive: Allows for thorough examination and treatment of joint issues with smaller incisions, leading to less pain and quicker recovery.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Provides a clear view of the joint’s interior, enabling precise diagnosis and targeted treatment.
- Reduced Recovery Time: The minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy often results in shorter recovery periods compared to traditional open surgery.
- Effective Treatment: Arthroscopy allows for both diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure, addressing the underlying cause of joint pain and dysfunction.
Why choose Warren House Vets?
We are committed to providing your pets with the best possible care through the use of advanced orthopaedic techniques. Our experienced veterinary team is skilled in performing arthroscopy, ensuring accurate diagnoses and effective treatments to help your pet regain mobility and comfort.
Schedule a Consultation Today!
If your pet is experiencing joint pain or mobility issues, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for their quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our arthroscopy services.
Thank you for reading, until next time…