What is the purpose of an arthrotomy?

The purpose of an arthrotomy is to create a surgical incision into a joint. This procedure allows for direct access to the interior of the joint space, enabling orthopedic surgeons to diagnose conditions, perform repairs, or carry out various treatments directly within the joint. By opening the joint surgically, it facilitates the evaluation and intervention for issues like torn ligaments, cartilage damage, or to wash out an infected joint.

In contrast, the other options refer to different surgical procedures or interventions: fusing bones together relates to arthrodesis, which is aimed at stabilizing a joint by permanently connecting the bones. Removing a hematoma from a bone pertains to another type of surgical procedure that targets specific hematomas rather than the joint as a whole. Stabilizing a bone fracture typically involves techniques such as internal or external fixation rather than directly accessing a joint space. Understanding the specific function of an arthrotomy is essential for comprehending its role in orthopedic interventions.