Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder conditions, including injuries, instability, inflammation, and degenerative conditions. It involves inserting a small camera called an arthroscope and specialized instruments through tiny incisions around the shoulder joint, allowing the surgeon to visualize and access the internal structures of the shoulder.

Diagnostic Benefits: One of the primary advantages of shoulder arthroscopy is its diagnostic capabilities. The arthroscope provides a clear view of the inside of the shoulder joint, including the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and synovium. This enables the surgeon to accurately assess the extent of any damage or abnormalities and diagnose the underlying cause of the patient’s symptoms, such as shoulder pain, stiffness, or weakness.

Therapeutic Interventions: In addition to diagnosis, shoulder arthroscopy allows for a range of therapeutic interventions to be performed during the same procedure. Common surgical treatments include:

Rotator Cuff Repair: Arthroscopic techniques can be used to repair tears in the rotator cuff tendons, restoring stability and function to the shoulder.
Labral Repair: Tears or damage to the labrum, the cartilage ring that lines the shoulder socket, can be addressed arthroscopically to improve stability and prevent dislocations.
Debridement: In cases of inflammation or impingement, the surgeon may use arthroscopic instruments to remove damaged tissue, smooth rough surfaces, and alleviate pain.
Capsular Release: For conditions like frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, arthroscopic procedures can be employed to release tight or thickened joint capsules, improving range of motion.
Bone Spur Removal: Arthroscopic techniques can be used to remove bone spurs or other bony growths that may be causing pain or restricting movement in the shoulder joint.

Minimally Invasive Approach: Shoulder arthroscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced tissue trauma, less postoperative pain, faster recovery times, and lower risk of complications such as infection and stiffness. These benefits make it an attractive option for patients seeking effective treatment with minimal disruption to their daily lives.