Shoulder Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat shoulder conditions

What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the shoulder joint. A small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to visualize and repair damaged tissue. This technique offers faster recovery and less scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

Minimally Invasive: Shoulder arthroscopy uses only 2-4 small incisions (about 1/4 inch each) compared to the 3-4 inch incisions required for open surgery.

Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy can diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions:

  • Rotator Cuff Tears: Partial or complete tears of the rotator cuff muscles
  • Shoulder Impingement: Compression of soft tissues during shoulder movement
  • Labral Tears: Tears in the cartilage ring around the shoulder socket
  • Frozen Shoulder: Adhesive capsulitis causing stiffness and pain
  • Biceps Tendon Problems: Tears or inflammation of the biceps tendon
  • Shoulder Instability: Loose or torn ligaments causing shoulder dislocation
  • Bone Spurs: Removal of bone spurs that cause impingement
  • Arthritis: Cleaning out inflamed tissue in arthritic joints

Arthroscopy Procedure

1

Preparation & Anesthesia

Patient positioned for optimal access. General anesthesia or nerve block administered for comfort during procedure.

2

Arthroscope Insertion

Small incisions made and arthroscope inserted to visualize inside the shoulder joint on a monitor.

3

Diagnosis & Treatment

Surgeon examines joint structures and performs necessary repairs using specialized instruments through additional small incisions.

4

Closure & Recovery

Incisions closed with small bandages. Patient monitored in recovery before discharge home same day.

Common Arthroscopic Procedures

Rotator Cuff Repair

Reattachment of torn rotator cuff tendons to bone using sutures and anchors.

Subacromial Decompression

Removal of bone spurs and inflamed tissue to relieve shoulder impingement.

Labral Repair

Repair of torn labrum (cartilage ring) to restore shoulder stability.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Successful recovery depends on following post-operative guidelines:

  • Immediate (0-2 weeks): Rest, ice, elevation, and pain management
  • Early phase (2-6 weeks): Gentle range of motion exercises with sling protection
  • Strengthening phase (6-12 weeks): Progressive strengthening and functional exercises
  • Return to activity (3-6 months): Gradual return to sports and heavy activities
  • Physical therapy: Essential for optimal recovery and function

Shoulder Problems Limiting Your Activity?

Don't let shoulder pain keep you from the activities you love. Schedule a consultation to see if shoulder arthroscopy can help restore your function and eliminate pain.

Schedule Consultation+1-555-BLUME-MD

Same-day outpatient procedure. Most insurance plans accepted.