Arthroscopy Shoulder Surgery: Procedure and Recovery
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder problems. In this article, we discuss what arthroscopic shoulder surgery is, why people get it, how to prepare for it, how it is performed, and what the recovery process looks like.
What is arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a surgical procedure that uses a small camera, called an arthroscope, to visualize and treat problems inside the shoulder joint. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the shoulder and inserts the arthroscope, which displays images of the inside of the joint on a video monitor. The surgeon can then use specialized instruments to diagnose and treat the problem.
What shoulder conditions does arthroscopy shoulder surgery treat?
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is not always necessary and non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, injections, and rest may be effective in treating some shoulder problems. Surgery is typically reserved as a final step for when nonsurgical treatments showed to be ineffective. It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits of arthroscopic shoulder surgery with your doctor and make an informed decision.
As a rotator cuff tear treatment
A rotator cuff tear can cause sudden or gradual onset of shoulder pain with or without weakness. Although tears can improve with appropriate rehabilitation, some patients may require surgery.
For shoulder impingement syndrome
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a condition where the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed or pinched, causing pain and discomfort. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery can help relieve the symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome.
For shoulder instability
Shoulder instability is a condition where the shoulder joint is loose and slides around too much or becomes dislocated. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery can help stabilize the shoulder joint.
Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move. Arthroscopy shoulder surgery can help relieve the symptoms of frozen shoulder.
For shoulder labral tear
A labral tear is a tear in the cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery can help repair a labral tear.
Torn cartilage
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery can remove inflamed tissue and treat injuries such as torn cartilage.
Bone spurs
Bone spurs are bony growths that can develop in the shoulder joint, causing pain and discomfort. Shoulder arthroscopy can remove bone spurs.
Other conditions
Arthroscopy shoulder surgery can also be used to treat other conditions such as damaged or torn ligaments, inflamed tissues, loose cartilage, non-healing shoulder dislocation, and age-related degeneration.
How to prepare for arthroscopic shoulder surgery
Preparing for shoulder arthroscopy is an essential step to ensure a successful procedure and recovery. Here are some tips on how to prepare for arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
Before undergoing shoulder surgery, talk to your orthopedic surgeon about your health history, medications you are taking, and any allergies you may have. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery.
You will not be able to drive after the surgery, so arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Also, prepare your home for the recovery. This may include setting up a comfortable recovery area, stocking up on food and supplies, and arranging for help with household chores.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of the surgery. Avoid wearing jewelry or other accessories that may interfere with the surgery.
After the surgery, you will need to follow a specific recovery plan to ensure proper healing. This may include physical therapy exercises, taking pain medication, and avoiding certain activities. Make sure you have a plan in place for postoperative care.
Is shoulder arthroscopy worth it?
Whether shoulder arthroscopy is worth it depends on the individual case and the specific condition being treated. Here are some points to consider.
Pros
- Arthroscopic surgery often results in less pain and stiffness, fewer complications, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery than open surgery.
- Arthroscopic shoulder surgery may relieve painful symptoms of many problems that damage the rotator cuff tendons, labrum, articular cartilage, and other soft tissues surrounding the joint.
- Shoulder arthroscopy is a less invasive alternative to open shoulder surgery.
Cons
- For many types of tears, rotator cuff surgery is largely ineffective
- There is a small risk of complications such as allergic reactions to medicines, breathing problems, bleeding, blood clots, infection, shoulder stiffness, failure of the surgery to relieve symptoms, the repair fails to heal, and weakness of the shoulder.
- Some people may still have shoulder instability after arthroscopic repair.
- Using arthroscopy for rotator cuff repairs or tendinitis usually relieves the pain, but you may not regain all of your strength.
Shoulder arthroscopy can be a highly effective treatment for a variety of shoulder problems. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your orthopedic surgeon and make an informed decision. Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, injections, and rest may be effective in treating some shoulder problems. It is essential to consider all treatment options and choose the one that is best for your individual case.
How arthroscopy shoulder surgery is performed
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day as the surgery. The procedure usually takes about an hour to complete and is performed under general anesthesia or regional nerve blocks.
During the surgery, the surgeon will make several small incisions in the shoulder and insert the arthroscope. They will then use specialized instruments to diagnose and treat the problem. Once the surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed with stitches or adhesive strips.
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery recovery
After arthroscopic shoulder surgery, you will need to follow a specific recovery plan to ensure proper healing. This may include:
- Wearing a sling to immobilize the shoulder
- Doing physical therapy exercises to improve range of motion and strength
- Taking pain medication as prescribed
- Avoiding certain activities, such as lifting heavy objects or playing sports
Shoulder arthroscopy recovery timeline
The recovery timeline for arthroscopic shoulder surgery can vary depending on the individual case and the severity of the condition being treated. However, here is a general timeline for recovery based on the information from the search results.
The first stage of recovery may last up to 6 weeks after surgery. During this time, you may need to wear a sling to immobilize the shoulder and avoid certain activities. Pain and swelling may last for several weeks after the surgery. Pain medication and applying cold compresses to the area can help reduce pain and swelling.
In most cases, your surgeon will want to see you at a follow-up appointment 1–2 weeks after your procedure to check that your shoulder is healing correctly. Rehabilitation is an essential part of the recovery process and may include physical therapy exercises to improve range of motion and strength. The length of therapy will depend on what was done during your surgery.
Recovery can take 1 to 6 months, and you may need to limit your activity until your shoulder strength and range of motion are back to normal.
The duration of postoperative recovery varies from person to person and depends on the degree of repair required. If you have a desk job, you may be able to go back to work a few days after the surgery. If you lift things at work, it may take months before you can go back. However, how soon you can go back to work or your usual routine will depend on your shoulder problem.
Every patient's recovery is different, and factors such as age, overall health, and the severity of the shoulder problem can affect the recovery timeline. Hence, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Discuss arthroscopy shoulder surgery with the best orthopedic surgeons on PreferredMD
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery has revolutionized the field of orthopedics by providing a minimally invasive approach to diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions. This advanced surgical technique not only minimizes the discomfort and recovery time for patients but also offers a more precise and effective solution for addressing issues that affect the shoulder joint. However, finding the right orthopedic surgeon to perform arthroscopic shoulder surgery is paramount for a successful outcome.
When it comes to identifying the best orthopedic surgeon for your specific needs, PreferredMD is a proven and trusted platform in the market. With a track record of connecting patients with highly skilled and experienced orthopedic specialists, PreferredMD ensures that you receive the care you deserve. Through our comprehensive database of orthopedic surgeons, patient reviews, and detailed information on their expertise, the platform empowers you to make an informed decision regarding your healthcare.
