Shoulder Arthroscopy

A doctor examining shoulder of a male person

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. Utilizing advanced technology, this technique allows surgeons to visualize the interior of the shoulder joint through small incisions, reducing recovery time and minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.

 

Shoulder arthroscopy involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) into the shoulder joint to provide a clear view of the structures within. This procedure can be used to address a variety of issues, including:

  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Labral tears
  • Loose bodies in the joint
  • Synovitis
  • Shoulder instability

Who Needs Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Candidates for shoulder arthroscopy typically include individuals who:

  • Experience persistent shoulder pain that affects daily activities.
  • Have limited range of motion or weakness in the shoulder.
  • Have not found relief from conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or medication.
  • Wish to return to sports or other activities that require shoulder function.
A doctor performing shoulder surgery

The Procedure

Shoulder arthroscopy is performed under general anesthesia and typically involves the following steps:

  1. Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and the shoulder area is sterilized.

  2. Incisions: Small incisions (portals) are made around the shoulder joint to allow access for the arthroscope and surgical instruments.

  3. Visualization: The arthroscope is inserted into the shoulder, providing real-time images on a monitor for the surgeon to assess the joint.

  4. Treatment: Depending on the diagnosis, the surgeon may:

    • Repair torn ligaments or tendons.
    • Remove loose bodies or damaged tissue.
    • Address impingement or other structural issues.
  5. Closure: The instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy varies based on the specific procedure performed but generally includes:

  • Initial Rest: Patients may need to wear a sling for several days to immobilize the shoulder.
  • Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program begins within a few days to improve range of motion, strength, and function.
  • Gradual Return to Activity: Most individuals can resume light activities within a few weeks, while full recovery may take several months, depending on the extent of the surgery and adherence to rehabilitation.

About Dr. Saif Nabi Shah

I currently practice at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, where I’m the Director of the Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopaedics.

My expertise covers Partial and Total Knee Replacement Surgery, Hip Replacement Surgery, Revision Surgeries, as well as Spinal Decompression & Fixation. To date, I’ve performed over 1500 joint replacement surgeries and more than 5000 orthopaedic surgeries.

 

Google Reviews

Pramod YadavPramod Yadav
10:27 12 Sep 24
Dr. Saif is very kindness and having good knowledge.Thanks to Dr Saif and entire team for operating surgery my Right hand shoulder
Neeraj SinghNeeraj Singh
05:44 12 Sep 24
Experience is very much excellentDr Saif sir and his all team person work is very excellent
farhan azmifarhan azmi
10:09 06 Aug 24
ashrita lalashrita lal
11:09 01 Aug 24
Thank you so much Sir.
Shilpi guptaShilpi gupta
05:12 17 Jul 24
Dear Dr. SaifThanks for the great care after my Mother TKR surgery! Your expertise and support have made a huge difference in my Mother recovery. pain-free and regaining strength. Appreciate your guidance and would highly recommend you to others.
Faizan RizviFaizan Rizvi
05:48 01 Jun 24
Dr. Saif N Shah and his team was kind. He listened to my concerns, and I greatly appreciated him walking me through every step of my forearm surgery I received. I felt confident with his treatment plan and would highly recommend him to other patients.
Rameshwar SinghRameshwar Singh
10:28 31 May 24
Dr Saif N Shah with his team is best doctor for orthopedic surgery. I was very much worried about my daughter's surgery but Dr Saif explained in detail the surgery procedure in very polite manner . After surgery I am very satisfied. Thanks to Dr Saif and team to perform pre and Post surgery care. I also appreciate the works and care of nursing and patients support staff at medanta specially supporting staff Mrs Geeta. She is very caring. Thanks to Dr Saif and his team .
Ashish ShuklaAshish Shukla
10:39 18 May 24
Dr. Saif isn't just a great doctor, He's a great human being, consciously doesn't write unnecessary tests, even tells u not to visit unnecessarily. In this day and age coming across an individual like him is a blessing in itself, Add his medical expertise on top of it and u get a justification for why doctors are often compared with God.He handled my implant removal with utmost care and responsibility. I wish there were more doctors and in general more humans like Dr. Saif. Thank you sir !
Aradhna PrakashAradhna Prakash
06:17 02 Apr 24
Dr Saif is an excellent surgeon! The way he handles his cases is really impressive. He has a very clear line of thought. He very adeptly tackles the treatment process and understands not just the pain caused by injury but also by the surgery. Thank you Dr Saif and the whole team at Medanta Lucknow for taking such good care of me.
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Years of Working 22+
Joint Replacement Surgeries 2000+
Othopedic Sugeries 6000+

FAQ

Shoulder arthroscopy is considered a minimally invasive surgery rather than a major surgery. It involves small incisions and the use of an arthroscope, which reduces tissue damage and recovery time compared to open surgical procedures. While it is still a surgical intervention, many patients experience less pain and a quicker return to daily activities.

Shoulder arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions, including:

  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Labral tears
  • Loose bodies or cartilage damage
  • Synovitis
  • Shoulder instability

By visualizing the joint through the arthroscope, surgeons can address these issues effectively.

Recovery time after shoulder arthroscopy varies based on the specific procedure performed and individual factors. Generally, patients may expect:

  • Initial rest with a sling for about 1-2 weeks.
  • Physical therapy to begin within a few days, focusing on range of motion and strength.
  • A gradual return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, while full recovery can take 3-6 months, particularly for more complex repairs.

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