Shoulder Arthroscopy
Find The Best Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgeon
Dr. Howarth, a leading orthopedic surgeon, offers shoulder arthroscopy to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera, known as an arthroscope, to visualize the inside of the shoulder joint and address issues such as rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and joint damage. By using small incisions, shoulder arthroscopy reduces recovery time, minimizes pain, and allows patients to return to their normal activities faster. Dr. Howarth’s expertise ensures precise treatment, whether you’re an athlete recovering from injury or someone experiencing chronic shoulder pain.
About Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to diagnose and treat various issues within the shoulder joint. During the procedure, a surgeon uses a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted through a tiny incision. This camera allows the surgeon to view the shoulder’s interior on a monitor, providing a clear and magnified look at the structures inside. The procedure aims to address conditions like rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, labral tears, and shoulder instability.
Procedure Overview
Preparation: The patient is placed under anesthesia, and small incisions are made around the shoulder area. The arthroscope is inserted, and other small instruments are used to perform the necessary repairs.
Diagnosis and Treatment: The surgeon can remove inflamed tissue, repair torn ligaments or tendons, and address bone spurs that may be causing pain. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure reduces tissue damage, helping promote faster recovery.
Closing: Once the issues are addressed, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures, and the shoulder is bandaged. The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Minimally Invasive: Only small incisions are needed, minimizing the risk of infection and reducing scarring.
- Quick Recovery Time: Patients usually experience less postoperative pain and have a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery.
- Effective for Multiple Conditions: Shoulder arthroscopy can be used to treat a wide range of shoulder issues, making it a versatile option for those suffering from chronic pain or injury.
This procedure is commonly recommended for patients who have not responded well to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication. Shoulder arthroscopy offers a less invasive and effective solution for achieving long-term relief and improved shoulder function.
Knee Arthroscopy FAQ's
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. It involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the shoulder joint to view, repair, or remove damaged tissue.
This procedure is commonly used to treat:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears
- Shoulder impingement
- Frozen shoulder
- Arthritis and cartilage damage
- Bone spurs
The duration of a shoulder arthroscopy typically ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the condition being treated.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery and return to sports or strenuous activities may take several months, often accompanied by physical therapy.
Patients may experience some pain and discomfort after the procedure, but this is usually managed with pain medications. Physical therapy is also recommended to aid in the recovery process and minimize pain.
Though generally safe, risks may include:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Blood clots
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Incomplete pain relief or recurrence of symptoms
Yes, physical therapy is typically an essential part of the recovery process. It helps improve range of motion, rebuild strength, and promote proper healing of the shoulder.
This depends on the nature of your job. For desk jobs, you may return within 1-2 weeks. For physically demanding jobs, you may need 6 weeks or longer, depending on your surgeon’s advice.
Shoulder arthroscopy involves small incisions, so scarring is minimal. Any scars that do form are typically small and fade over time.
Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results (such as X-rays or MRI) to determine if shoulder arthroscopy is the best treatment option for your condition.
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