Shoulder Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder conditions. Through several small incisions, a tiny camera and specialized instruments allow the surgeon to view the inside of the shoulder joint and repair damaged tissue with less disruption to the surrounding structures than traditional open surgery.
For many patients, arthroscopic surgery may mean smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a more streamlined recovery.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy may be used to treat:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears
- Shoulder impingement
- Biceps tendon injuries
- Shoulder instability
- Cartilage injuries
- Loose bodies within the joint
- Inflammation or damaged tissue
- Certain AC joint conditions
Not every shoulder condition requires surgery. Treatment is based on the type and severity of the injury, symptoms, activity level, and response to nonsurgical care.
Symptoms That May Require Evaluation
You may benefit from an orthopaedic evaluation if you are experiencing:
- Persistent shoulder pain
- Pain when lifting or reaching overhead
- Weakness
- Limited range of motion
- Clicking, catching, or popping
- A feeling that the shoulder is unstable
- Nighttime shoulder pain
- Symptoms that continue despite rest, therapy, or other treatment
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Whenever appropriate, treatment may begin with conservative options such as:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- Home exercise programs
- Temporary modification of sports or work activities
If symptoms continue despite appropriate nonsurgical treatment, arthroscopic surgery may be considered.
What Happens During Shoulder Arthroscopy?
During shoulder arthroscopy, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the shoulder through a small incision.
The camera provides a detailed view of the joint on a monitor. Additional small incisions allow specialized surgical instruments to be used to treat the specific problem.
Depending on the condition, the procedure may involve:
- Repairing a torn rotator cuff
- Repairing damaged labral tissue
- Treating shoulder instability
- Removing inflamed or damaged tissue
- Addressing biceps tendon problems
- Removing loose cartilage or bone
- Creating additional space for irritated shoulder structures when appropriate
The exact procedure depends on the patient's diagnosis and findings at surgery.
Recovery After Shoulder Arthroscopy
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed.
Some patients may begin gentle movement soon after surgery, while others may need to wear a sling for a period of time to protect a repair.
Physical therapy is often an important part of recovery and may focus on:
- Restoring range of motion
- Improving strength
- Protecting repaired tissue
- Restoring shoulder stability
- Gradually returning to work, sports, and normal activities
Your postoperative plan will be individualized based on your procedure and recovery goals.
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy Right for You?
Shoulder arthroscopy may be considered when symptoms interfere with daily activities, work, sleep, or sports and have not improved with appropriate nonsurgical treatment.
The decision to proceed with surgery is made after reviewing your symptoms, physical examination, imaging, treatment history, and personal goals.
Shoulder Pain Doesn't Have to Keep You From the Activities You Enjoy
Schedule an orthopaedic evaluation to determine the cause of your shoulder symptoms and discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for you.
