Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive surgical innovation that allows surgeons to see inside the shoulder and carry out procedures through an incision.

A minimally invasive surgical innovation that allows surgeons to see inside the shoulder and carry out procedures through an incision.

Find a Doctor

shoulder arthroscopy

Overview

Arthroscopic surgery can be used to diagnose and treat certain shoulder injuries. This minimally invasive approach to surgery can help speed recovery, reduce pain and minimize scarring, when compared to traditional open surgery.

How to Prepare

Before your surgeon performs the surgery, he or she may have you:

  • Get a physical exam, blood work and urine analysis to get a sense of any problems that could arise
  • Adjust certain medications like blood thinners
  • Get any healthy issues like diabetes or high blood pressure under control

Choosing the Right Doctor

When choosing an orthopaedic surgeon, keep the following things in mind:

Orthopaedic surgeons are medical doctors or osteopaths with an MD or DO degree who have completed a residency in orthopaedics

They must be certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Recovery & Rehabilitation

post shoulder arthroscopy

Post-Surgery

Once your surgery is complete, you will stay in the recovery room up to 2 hours. When you are released, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night.

Rehab Pain Medications

Pain/Medications

You should expect discomfort for at least the first week. Ice may help you to relieve pain, and you may receive a prescription for pain medicine from your doctor.

Rehab Mobility

Mobility

More than likely, your doctor will have you wear a sling or immobilizer. Your doctor will provide you with an exercise plan to help you regain strength, motion and flexibility.

HELPFUL LINKS

Understanding Shoulder Anatomy

Understanding Shoulder Anatomy

Your shoulder joint is as unique as you are. The variation from person to person is due to differences in size, shape, and angle of the bones, as well as other natural variations

male elderly patient playing basketball with grandchildren

Shoulder Replacement

Whether or not to have shoulder replacement surgery is a difficult decision. Discussing your treatment options with your doctor is essential to helping you decide if this is the right choice for you. Learning more about shoulder replacement surgery can help you to formulate the questions you would like to ask your doctor.

male patient playing with children

Shoulder Fracture

Sometimes an injury causes a shoulder bone to break or partially crack. The fracture usually involves the collarbone (clavicle) or the area just below the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus). The cause is often a sudden blow to the shoulder or a bad fall. Pain follows, and the patient may be able to see his or her shoulder bones out of position.