Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows orthopaedic surgeons to diagnose and treat a range of shoulder conditions with precision and minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. It has become a popular solution for people with shoulder pain or mobility issues, offering faster recovery times and improved outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.
Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure Overview
The procedure begins with the surgeon making a few small incisions in the shoulder area and flushing sterile fluid into the joint to enhance visibility. A specialised instrument called an arthroscope, equipped with a camera, magnifying lenses and light source, is inserted through one of the incisions to provide a detailed internal view of the joint. Small surgical instruments are introduced through other incisions to perform the necessary repairs or adjustments.
This minimally invasive approach enables precise treatment of conditions like rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, frozen shoulder, and damage to the labrum or cartilage.
Common Indications for Shoulder Arthroscopy
It is commonly performed to address issues that are unresponsive to conservative treatments like physiotherapy, painkillers, or corticosteroid injections. Some common conditions treated with this procedure include:
- Rotator cuff injuries: Repairs are made to torn tendons using sutures or anchors.
- Labral tears: The surgeon repairs the damaged cartilage that stabilises the shoulder joint.
- Bone spurs: Arthroscopy can remove excess bone growth that restricts movement or causes pain.
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Arthroscopy helps release tight shoulder tissue to improve range of motion.
- Inflammation: Arthroscopy can treat inflamed tissue caused by arthritis or injury.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery
The benefits of arthroscopic surgery are significant, especially compared to traditional open surgery. Key advantages include:
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions reduce scarring and discomfort.
- Faster recovery: Patients typically experience shorter healing times and improved mobility sooner.
- Reduced infection risk: Fewer and smaller incisions lower the chance of post-operative infections.
- Enhanced precision: The arthroscope’s magnified view enables accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
These benefits make arthroscopy a preferred option for treating various shoulder problems in both active individuals and those with age-related joint issues.
What to Expect During Shoulder Arthroscopy
The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthetic, although some cases may involve local anaesthesia with sedation. It usually takes between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the treatment required.
Afterwards, patients are closely monitored for a short period before being discharged. Most can return home the same day, although assistance may be necessary for a few days initially.
Shoulder Arthroscopy Recovery Time
Shoulder arthroscopy recovery time varies depending on the condition treated. While minor interventions may require only a few weeks of recovery, more extensive repairs can take several months.
Patients can expect to:
- Wear a sling for up to four weeks to aid the healing process.
- Gradually resume light activities after two to three weeks.
- Receive guided physiotherapy to regain full mobility and strength.
Full recovery generally takes three to six months, but ongoing exercises may be recommended to maintain stability and strength.
Arthroscopy offers a minimally disruptive solution for diagnosing and treating shoulder conditions. If you are experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness, arthroscopic surgery could be the solution. Consult a leading orthopaedic specialist to find out more.