SERVICES

Upper Limb and Hand Pathology

Wrist Arthroscopy

OVERVIEW

Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopaedic surgeons like Dr Jason du Plessis to examine, diagnose, and treat various conditions affecting the wrist joint. This advanced technique involves the use of a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, which is placed through small incisions in the wrist. Dr du Plessis   utilises his expertise in orthopaedic surgery to navigate the arthroscope and address issues within the joint, providing patients with an effective and less invasive option for managing wrist problems.

Types of wrist arthroscopy

Dr Jason du Plessis specialises in several types of wrist arthroscopy tailored to address specific conditions. Some common types include:

  1. Diagnostic arthroscopy: Utilised to identify the source of wrist pain or discomfort by examining the joint's structures.
  2. Therapeutic arthroscopy: Involves the treatment of various wrist conditions, such as ligament injuries, cartilage damage, or inflammation.
  3. Joint debridement: Dr du Plessis   may perform joint debridement to remove damaged tissue and smooth surfaces or repair small tears in the ligaments.

CAUSES

Several factors may lead to the need for wrist arthroscopy, including:

  1. Trauma: Injuries such as dislocations, ligament tears or injuries to the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) may necessitate surgical intervention.
  2. Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint damage, leading to the need for arthroscopic procedures.
  3. Repetitive stress: Occupational or sports-related activities that involve repetitive motion can contribute to wrist injuries requiring arthroscopy.
SYMPTOMS
Patients experiencing the following symptoms may benefit from a consultation with Dr du Plessis:
  • Persistent pain: Chronic or acute wrist pain that does not improve with conservative measures.
  • Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the wrist or performing daily activities.
  • Swelling and inflammation: Visible swelling or inflammation around the wrist joint.
  • Locking or catching sensation: Feeling as though the wrist joint "catches" or "locks" during movement.
TREATMENT
Dr Jason du Plessis emphasises a comprehensive approach to treating wrist conditions, tailoring interventions to each patient's unique needs. Conservative treatments may include:
Conservative treatment:
  • Rest and immobilisation: Allowing the wrist joint to rest and heal, often facilitated by splints or braces.
  • Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
  • Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms.
In cases where conservative measures prove insufficient, Dr du Plessis may recommend surgical intervention. Wrist arthroscopy offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, minimising scarring and promoting quicker recovery.

FAQ

What is the recovery time after wrist arthroscopy?
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. Generally, patients can expect a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery, with some returning to normal activities within a few weeks.
Will there be scarring after wrist arthroscopy?
The incisions made during wrist arthroscopy are small, resulting in minimal scarring. Dr Jason du Plessis takes care to optimise cosmetic outcomes while ensuring effective treatment.
How does wrist arthroscopy differ from traditional open surgery?
Unlike traditional open surgery, wrist arthroscopy involves smaller incisions, reducing scarring and promoting a quicker recovery. The surgeon uses a camera to visualise and address issues within the joint without the need for extensive cutting.

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    PUBLICATIONS

    Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
    Classification in Blount’s Disease

    DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.

     

    The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg

    Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.

    Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection

    DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020

     

    Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.

    Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4