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The InnerVue™ Diagnostic Scope System is designed for use in a diagnostic environment (such as an office or outpatient service) to evaluate conditions within the joint. This system can be used in addition to MRI or alone to determine the next plan of action for each patient. This scope is primarily being used in the knee and shoulder. However, the wrist, elbow, ankle and other small joints are presently being investigated. Some of the potential benefits of the InnerVue™ system include:
The InnerVue Diagnostic Scope System is an exciting technological breakthrough that allows surgeons to visualize the knee, shoulder, and other small joints quickly and conveniently, all without having to leave the doctor’s office. While the arthroscope was originally developed as a surgical tool, the InnerVue Diagnostic Scope system is a modern microarthroscope developed as a diagnostic device. A physician can use the system alone or in conjunction with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the next treatment step for each patient. The procedure can be more accurate than MRI, particularly with diagnosing cartilage and articular surface damage and assessing arthritis severity. An exciting feature of the InnerVue Diagnostic Scope System is that patients are able to participate in the diagnosis. Since patients are awake during the procedure, they can move their joints and flex their muscles. One of the major benefits of the InnerVue system is its ability to provide an immediate diagnosis. Since the patient does not need to go offsite for testing, the InnerVue system puts a dynamic and active diagnostic test in the hands of the physician. The patient receives only one needle poke and may walk out of the office immediately after the procedure. The InnerVue technology can give the physician the ability to acquire an immediate diagnosis. Imagine an answer to your joint problem in less than 30 minutes without having to travel to a hospital or other facility. Will the procedure be painful? The joint is injected with a local anesthetic before the procedure. The anesthetic will numb the area around the joint and will not cause you to “fall asleep”. Most people say that the needle prick from the anesthesia is the most uncomfortable part of the procedure. How long will the procedure take? The InnerVue Diagnostic Scope procedure will last approximately 10-15 minutes. The entire office visit should last 30-40 minutes. Can I go back to work? Most patients will be able to return to work following the procedure. You doctor will give you specific instructions following the procedure. Can I walk after the procedure? Yes, patients are able to walk without assistance immediately after the procedure. Will it be painful once the anesthesia wears off? You doctor may prescribe an over-the-counter pain medication to help with any residual soreness after the procedure. Most patients are not bothered much by the soreness. Is this a surgical treatment procedure? No, the InnerVue Diagnostic Scope is an evaluation, similar to an x-ray or MRI. This is not a surgical procedure, only an evaluation to correctly diagnose your joint problem. Surgery or prescribed therapy will occur at a later time. For more information or to schedule an appointment you may contact Dr. Kucharzyk’s office at (219) 662-2279. The InnerVue™ is a trademark of Arthrotek, Inc. |
