Shoulder Arthroscopy Overview
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minor operation that is used to diagnose and treat shoulder issues such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder impingement. The procedure requires small incisions that are about the size of a keyhole, and an arthroscope is inserted. It projects images of the shoulder joint on a screen so that the surgeon can restore movements in the shoulder and find out what caused the injury with tiny instruments.
This surgery is recommended for shoulder pain that does not respond to non-surgical treatments. It can help with problems like biceps tendon injuries, bone spurs, frozen shoulders, torn ligaments, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tears, tendonitis, shoulder impingement, or instability. Shoulder arthroscopy comes second after knee arthroscopy in terms of the commonest orthopedic operation performed by doctors.
Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure, Recovery and Post-Procedure Care
Preparation: Prior to proceeding with shoulder arthroscopy, the surgeon will ask about the medical history and the medications that are taking. It may be necessary to discontinue some drugs for several days ahead of surgery. The surgeons will provide tailored guidance on dietary requirements and protocols to follow. Duplex scan imaging, chest X-rays, blood tests, and electrocardiograms are suggested to know the status before surgery.
During the procedure: A semi-seated or supine position is assumed prior to the surgery, where the patient is shaved and cleansed. The surgeon can pump fluid into the shoulder to create some degree of inflation in the joint cavity. An incision is made above the shoulder through which a camera is introduced in order to display the images on a monitor screen. Several other small cuts and tools are also used during this procedure. At last, after the operation, all these incisions are closed, and stitches or a little dressing may be given to the patient.
After the procedure: In most cases, outpatient shoulder arthroscopies take less than an hour, and this allows one to be able to go back home soon thereafter. The patient must also spend an hour or two in recovery after the surgery while considering that he/she may need painkillers.
Shoulder arthroscopy recovery: Following arthroscopy on the shoulder, recovery can take weeks or even months. There may be swelling and fever for a few weeks; inflammation can be managed by ice and analgesics; placing themselves in an elevated position while asleep may also help one who feels reeling due to injury. Movement rehabilitation and physiotherapy are advised after some time.
Post-procedure care: Post-operative care for shoulder arthroscopy:
- Maintain the dressing for about 2–3 days after surgery before removing it. Ensure that the healing sites are clean and dry.
- Support the shoulder with a sling to prevent any movement.
- Adhere to the painkiller medication as prescribed by the doctor.
- Undergo physiotherapy to regain mobility and eventually, shoulder functions.
- Have a balanced diet, as it will help one to heal faster and avoid constipation.
- Apply ice packs as instructed by the doctor in order to reduce pain and swelling.
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Procedure Name
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        Shoulder Arthroscopy
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Type of Surgery
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      Minimally invasive or open
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Type of Anesthesia
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         General anesthesia
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Procedure Duration
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               1 hour
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Recovery Duration
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       Few weeks to a few months
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Benefits of  Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery
- Safe, Effective Procedure for Mobility Regain.
- Relieves Long-Term Pain and Increases Mobility.
- Improves Quality of Life.
- Minimal Hospitalisations.
- Greater Flexibility and Reduced Risk of Dislocation.
