Joint arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a surgeon uses a small camera to examine, diagnose, and treat joint problems.
It has revolutionized the field of orthopedics and has become a widely accepted and effective method of treating joint injuries and diseases. However, with traditional arthroscopy techniques, the surgeon could only observe one joint at a time, which made simultaneous procedures impossible, resulting in longer operation times and more stress on the patient.
Groundbreaking simultaneous dual arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER (multiple orthopedic tools handling and ergonomic robotic) technology has changed the game for orthopedic surgeons.
This new technology allows surgeons to operate on two joints simultaneously, which offers significant benefits to both the patient and the surgeon.
What is MOTHER Technology?
MOTHER technology is a robotic system that allows a surgeon to use two separate arthroscopic tools to operate on two joints simultaneously.
It provides the surgeon with the opportunity to operate on two joints with one arthroscope, which significantly reduces the time and cost of the operation, as well as reducing stress on the patient.
The MOTHER device consists of two robotic arms, which hold two arthroscopes in their grasps, as well as holding other surgical instruments. These arms are controlled by the surgeon using foot pedals and hand controllers.
Benefits of Dual Simultaneous Arthroscopy Utilizing MOTHER Technology
Simultaneous dual arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER technology offers numerous advantages over traditional arthroscopy techniques.
Reduced Surgical Time
The simultaneous dual arthroscopy procedure significantly reduces surgical time.
By operating on two joints simultaneously, the surgeon can treat both injuries more quickly than traditional methods, which require the surgeon to move from one joint to another.
Less Anesthesia Time
With dual simultaneous arthroscopy, the patient only has to undergo anesthesia once, rather than twice, which reduces the time the patient is under anesthesia.
Less Stress on the Patient
The less time the patient spends under anesthesia, the lower the chances of complications that may arise from the effects of anesthesia.
Additionally, the patient does not have to undergo the physical and psychological stress twice, which can result in a quicker recovery time.
Quicker Recovery Time
With a shortened procedure time and less anesthesia time, the recovery period for the patient will typically be shorter compared to traditional arthroscopy techniques. This means that patients can return to their normal activities much faster.
Improved Emergency Procedures
A more expedited operation opens the door for quicker emergency procedures to repair multiple injuries. Given the severity of these situations, this can mean the difference between a life saved or lost.
Improved Operating Space
With traditional arthroscopy, the area around the surgical site can become crowded with equipment and personnel.
The simultaneous dual arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER technology allows the surgeon to operate on two joints in the same space, which reduces equipment and personnel requirements, allows for easier access to the patient, and optimizes sterile conditions.
Conditions Applicable for Dual Simultaneous Arthroscopy Utilizing MOTHER Technology
The dual simultaneous arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER technology is most often utilized in the treatment of injuries or diseases that affect multiple joints simultaneously. Some of these conditions include:.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and results from wear and tear on the cartilage that cushions joints. It is often found in older patients and can occur in many joints simultaneously.
Simultaneous dual arthroscopy can be a great option for such patients, where multiple joints need treatment.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. It can cause the simultaneous inflammation of multiple joints.
Hence, simultaneous arthroscopy could be an effective treatment option as it enables the surgeon to treat inflamed joints in a shorter duration of time.
Injuries to Multiple Joints
Injuries to multiple joints due to a trauma can often be effectively treated with the dual simultaneous arthroscopy technique.
The surgeon can examine, evaluate, and treat multiple joint injuries during a single operation, which reduces the time between injury and required treatment and minimizes the risk of post-traumatic arthritis.
Pitfalls and Risks
Like all surgical procedures, simultaneous dual arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER technology has some associated risks. The more common risks include:.
Blood Loss
While simultaneous dual arthroscopy with MOTHER technology requires only a single procedure, it also involves operating on two joints simultaneously, which could increase blood loss compared to a traditional method.
However, studies have shown that the loss of blood is equivalent to that of traditional arthroscopy methods.
Infection
As with any open surgical procedure, the risk of infection is present. However, the simultaneous dual arthroscopy technique can reduce the risk of infection by minimizing the time the patient is under anesthesia and the exposure of the surgical field.
Equipment Failure
As with any surgery, there is a risk of equipment failure. However, the advancements in MOTHER technology have reduced the rate of equipment malfunction to a minimum.
Cost
The cost of the arthroscopy procedure utilizing MOTHER technology can be higher than the traditional single-joint method. However, the cost can be offset by shortening the hospital stay and the recovery time required compared to the traditional method.
Conclusion
The simultaneous dual arthroscopy utilizing MOTHER technology is a groundbreaking procedure and a significant step forward in the field of joint arthroscopy.
It enables surgeons to operate on more than one joint simultaneously, resulting in quicker recovery times, shorter procedure times, and less stress on the patient. While it has some associated risks, the benefits of simultaneous dual arthroscopy make it an attractive option not only for patients, but for surgeons as well.
With advancements in technology and robotics, there is no doubt that this procedure will become a go-to treatment option for certain conditions.