The role of arthroscopy in athletic injuries of the wrist.

Arthroscopy has advanced our understanding of wrist dysfunction due to injuries sustained during participation in sports. Although the initial role of arthroscopy was primarily to facilitate diagnosis of specific injuries, technologic advances have allowed many of these entities to be managed arthroscopically. This minimally invasive surgery, which is used to treat cartilage lesions, ligament instability, synovitis, and other injuries, allows early and more specific diagnosis, satisfactory management, and early return to play or work. Arthroscopy should be considered a primary means of evaluation and management of athletic injuries of the wrist.