A specialized surgical technique used by orthopedic surgeons to treat various shoulder joint issues. This minimally invasive procedure allows surgeons to examine and repair the inside of the shoulder joint using small instruments and a tiny camera called an arthroscope. It’s commonly employed to address conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, labral tears, shoulder instability, and arthritis.
The Procedure
- Preparation: Before the procedure, patients receive anesthesia to ensure comfort. The shoulder area is then cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
- Insertion of Arthroscope: The surgeon makes a small incision near the shoulder joint to insert the arthroscope, which is equipped with a light source and camera. This allows the surgeon to view the inside of the shoulder joint on a monitor with a clear, magnified image.
- Diagnostic Phase: The surgeon examines the joint structures, including cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, to identify any abnormalities or injuries causing the patient’s symptoms.
- Treatment Phase: Based on the findings, the surgeon may make additional small incisions to introduce surgical instruments. These tools enable the repair of damaged tissues, such as torn tendons or ligaments, removal of bone spurs, or stabilization of the joint.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive: Compared to traditional open surgery, shoulder arthroscopy requires smaller incisions, which results in less tissue damage, reduced post-operative pain, faster recovery times, and lower risks of complications like infection.
Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment: The arthroscope provides a detailed view of the shoulder joint, allowing for precise diagnosis and targeted treatment of specific conditions.
Outpatient Procedure: Often performed typically allows patients to return home the same day after a brief observation period.
Recovery
- Post-Operative Care: Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and stiffness, which can be managed with pain medications and ice packs.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises and therapy are crucial for restoring shoulder strength, flexibility, and function.
- Gradual Return to Activities: The timeline for resuming normal activities varies based on the extent of the procedure and individual healing, ranging from several weeks to a few months.
Shoulder arthroscopy represents a significant advancement in orthopedic surgery, offering a less invasive option for effectively diagnosing and treating shoulder joint problems, aiming to reduce pain and improve shoulder function and quality of life.
