Shoulder Arthroscopy

Common conditions treated with shoulder arthroscopy include:

Rotator cuff tears: Arthroscopy can be used to repair tears in the rotator cuff tendons, which are common injuries that can cause pain and weakness in the shoulder.
Shoulder impingement syndrome: This occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become pinched between the bones of the shoulder joint, leading to pain and inflammation. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to remove any impinging structures and alleviate symptoms.
Shoulder instability: Arthroscopy can be used to repair damaged ligaments or labrum in the shoulder joint, which can lead to recurrent dislocations or instability.
Shoulder arthritis: While arthroscopy cannot cure arthritis, it can be used to remove loose fragments of cartilage or bone and alleviate symptoms in some cases.

The benefits of shoulder arthroscopy include smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, quicker recovery times, and potentially lower risks of complications compared to traditional open surgery. However, not all shoulder problems can be treated with arthroscopy, and the suitability of the procedure depends on factors such as the specific condition, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise. It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of shoulder arthroscopy with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best treatment approach for your individual situation.

FAQ...

What is shoulder arthroscopy ?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various shoulder joint problems by inserting a small camera and instruments through small incisions.

What conditions can be treated with shoulder arthroscopy ?

Common conditions treated with shoulder arthroscopy include rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, shoulder instability, and shoulder arthritis.

How is shoulder arthroscopy performed ?

During shoulder arthroscopy, the surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder joint and inserts an arthroscope (a small camera) and specialized instruments to visualize and treat the problem within the joint.

What are the benefits of shoulder arthroscopy ?

Benefits include smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, quicker recovery times, potentially lower risks of complications compared to open surgery, and the ability to address various shoulder conditions.

Who is a candidate for shoulder arthroscopy ?

Candidates for shoulder arthroscopy are individuals with shoulder joint problems such as rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, instability, or arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments.

How long does it take to recover from shoulder arthroscopy ?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure and individual factors, but most patients can resume light activities within a few days to weeks and return to full activities within several months.

What are the potential risks of shoulder arthroscopy ?

Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve or blood vessel damage, stiffness, continued pain, and the need for additional surgery in some cases.

How successful is shoulder arthroscopy ?

Success rates vary depending on the condition being treated, but overall, shoulder arthroscopy has been shown to be effective in relieving pain, restoring function, and improving quality of life for many patients.

Are there any alternatives to shoulder arthroscopy ?

Depending on the specific condition, alternatives may include conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, corticosteroid injections, or traditional open surgery in some cases.

What should I expect before, during, and after shoulder arthroscopy ?

Before the procedure, you’ll undergo a preoperative evaluation and receive instructions on preparing for surgery. During the procedure, you’ll be under anesthesia, and afterward, you’ll receive postoperative instructions for pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation exercises to facilitate recovery.