Arthroscopic Surgery Specialist
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Orthopedics Unlimited
Michael Rieber, MD
Orthopaedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Physician located in West Orange, NJ & Newark, NJ
If you experience a sports-related injury like a rotator cuff or labral tear, arthroscopic surgery provides a minimally invasive treatment option with less downtime, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery process than traditional open surgery. At Orthopedics Unlimited in Livingston, New Jersey, orthopaedic surgeon Michael Rieber, MD, provides arthroscopic surgery onsite on an outpatient basis. To schedule an appointment, book online or call the office today.
Arthroscopic Surgery Q&A
What is arthroscopic surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat joint-related health problems. It uses special surgical tools and small incisions to reduce scarring and support your body’s natural healing process.
Anyone can undergo arthroscopic surgery, but it’s especially beneficial for athletes and other physically active individuals. This is because it provides a much shorter post-recovery period when compared to traditional open surgery.
How does arthroscopic surgery work?
At Orthopedics Unlimited, Dr. Rieber performs orthopedic surgery on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home following your procedure.
On the day of your operation, Dr. Rieber administers an anesthetic to numb your joint and ensure your comfort. Once the anesthesia sets in, he makes two small incisions near your affected joint. He carefully pushes a thin tube with a camera on the end (an arthroscope) through the first incision and pencil-sized surgical instruments through the second incision.
The arthroscope displays real-time images of your joint on a television monitor, allowing Dr. Rieber to make the repairs quickly and efficiently. Because arthroscopic surgery only requires small incisions, it results in less blood loss, reduced postoperative pain, and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.
What are the types of arthroscopic surgery?
At Orthopedics Unlimited, Dr. Rieber offers several types of arthroscopic surgery, including:
Shoulder arthroscopy
If you tear your rotator cuff — a group of four muscles that help support and stabilize your shoulder joint — Dr. Rieber might recommend shoulder arthroscopy. Shoulder arthroscopy is a quick and effective procedure that can alleviate pain, lost function, and discomfort.
Knee arthroscopy
If you tear your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which helps control knee movement, you might benefit from knee arthroscopy. This procedure allows Dr. Rieber to operate on your knee without making a large incision.
Knee arthroscopy restores strength and stability to your knee joint. If you’re an active individual or athlete, this means you can return to the court or playing field sooner, often with little compromise in your mobility or strength.
What is recovery like following arthroscopic surgery?
Following arthroscopic surgery, Dr. Rieber sends you home with a list of recovery instructions. Your incisions heal within the first few days. However, it typically takes several weeks for your joint to fully recover. Take any medications as prescribed and make sure to attend all follow-up appointments.
To speed up your recovery process, Dr. Rieber might recommend physical therapy or at-home strengthening exercises. Be patient, stay positive, and listen to Dr. Rieber’s guidance.
If you regularly experience joint pain, you may benefit from arthroscopic surgery. To schedule an appointment at Orthopedics Unlimited, book online or call the office today.
