Thermal energy in arthroscopic surgery of the wrist.

ABSTRACT

Thermal energy in arthroscopic surgery needs further follow-up evaluation to clarify the potential benefits, specifically with respect to thermal shrinkage. Although the initial findings are promising, the long-term results need to be compared with other accepted standards of management. Preliminary findings seem to show that the addition of these surgical instruments and expanding operative techniques have definite roles in arthroscopic wrist surgery, as demonstrated through meticulous synovectomies and precise tissue debridement, along with the possible thermal shrinkage potential.