Surveying the Use and Perceptions of Wrist Arthroscopy Among Upper Extremity Surgeons

Abstract

This study describes current trends in the skill acquisition and practice patterns for wrist arthroscopy among upper extremity surgeons. A survey was sent to the membership of the American Association for Hand Surgery (AAHS). A total of 104 responses were available for analysis. Of those respondents who did not use wrist arthroscopy, lack of educational training was cited as the most common reason. Of those who did use arthroscopy, fellowship training was credited as the primary source. However, most of those who completed an instructional course felt immediately able to perform arthroscopy. Triangular fibrocartilage complex tears were recorded as the most common indication. Surgeons frequently evaluated the midcarpal joint, but did not frequently use arthroscopy for distal radio-ulnar joint or carpometacarpal joint pathology. Ultimately, this highlights an area of improvement for residency and fellowship education. [ Orthopedics . 2022;45(5):310–313.]