Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder joint problems.
What is shoulder arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a specialized surgical procedure that allows surgeons to visualize and access the structures inside the functionalityjoint, including the rotator cuff, cartilage and ligaments. It involves the use of a small camera attached to a flexible tube (arthroscope) that is inserted through small incisions around the shoulder.
Shoulder arthroscopy: what the procedure involves
The procedure followed in functionality arthroscopy involves some basic steps:
- Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, although regional anesthesia may be used.
- Incisions: Small incisions, usually less than one centimetre, are made around the shoulder to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments.
- Arthroscopic examination: the arthroscope is inserted, providing a clear, magnified image of the shoulder joint on a monitor. This allows the surgeon to evaluate the condition of the tissues, including the rotator cuff, ligaments and cartilage.
- Treatment or rehabilitation: Depending on the findings, surgical procedures such as repairing the rotator cuff, removing damaged tissue or treating ligament injuries through specialized tools inserted through the additional incisions may be performed.
- Closure: After the necessary restorations or procedures are completed, the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive tapes.
Conditions treated with shoulder arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is preferred as the ideal solution for various shoulder problems, such as:
- Rotator cuff tear: Ruptures in the rotator cuff tendons can be repaired or trimmed with the arthroscopy procedure.
- Glenoid cartilage tears: Arthroscopy is often performed to treat tears in the cartilage.
- mpingement syndrome: Surgery can relieve pressure on the tendons and bursae.
- Shoulder instability: Surgery can be performed to stabilize loose or dislocated shoulders.
- Arthritis: Certain arthritic conditions can be treated or cured through arthroscopic procedures.
The benefits of Shoulder arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy offers many benefits to patients, including:
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions lead to reduced tissue damage, less scarring and faster healing.
- Accurate diagnosis: The magnified view allows for accurate identification of shoulder problems.
- Faster recovery: compared to traditional open surgery, recovery time is shorter.
- Procedure performed as one day surgery/clinic (ODS/ODC): Many shoulder arthroscopies allow patients to return home the same day.
Recovery and postoperative care
Recovery after shoulder arthroscopy includes:
- Rest and immobilization: Initially a splint may be used to immobilize the shoulder. Rest and limited movement are essential during the early phase of recovery.
- Physical therapy: A structured rehabilitation program is vital to restore strength, flexibility and function to the shoulder.
- Medication: Medications may be prescribed to manage pain such as paracetamol (Depon) and anti-inflammatory medications to manage discomfort/oedema.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are essential to monitor progress and ensure proper healing.
Risks and complications.
Although shoulder arthroscopy is a safe procedure, potential risks (less than 1%) include infection, bleeding, nerve injury and stiffness. Following postoperative instructions and follow-up appointments can minimize these risks.
Shoulder arthroscopy is an important surgical technique as it offers a minimally invasive approach for the diagnosis and treatment of various shoulder conditions. If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, instability or limited range of motion, consult an orthopedic specialist. He or she can evaluate your condition, discuss treatment options such as shoulder arthroscopy, and guide you to improve your shoulder function and relieve discomfort.
To learn more about shoulder arthroscopy, contact us at 0030211 - 4057040 or 00306949196061 and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make your appointment.
