Shoulder Arthroscopy

Procedures

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Overview
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder problems. Using small incisions and a tiny camera called an arthroscope, your surgeon can see inside the shoulder joint and perform necessary repairs with precision. Shoulder arthroscopy is commonly used to treat rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, shoulder impingement, instability, and early stages of arthritis. The goal is to relieve pain, restore shoulder function, and allow patients to return to their daily activities.

Factors Influencing Outcomes
Several factors can affect the success of shoulder arthroscopy:

  • Type and severity of injury: Larger rotator cuff tears or advanced arthritis may require longer recovery and have varied outcomes.

  • Tissue quality: Healthier tendons and tissues heal better after repair.

  • Patient commitment to rehabilitation: Active participation in physical therapy is critical to restoring motion and strength.

The Shift Toward Minimally Invasive Repair
In the past, many shoulder injuries required open surgery. Today, arthroscopy allows surgeons to treat complex problems through small incisions, reducing pain, speeding recovery, and minimizing scarring. Arthroscopy is now the standard approach for most rotator cuff repairs, labral repairs, and treatment of shoulder impingement.

The Procedure
Shoulder arthroscopy is performed under anesthesia, typically as an outpatient procedure. Small incisions are made around the shoulder to insert the camera and specialized instruments. Depending on your diagnosis, your surgeon may:

  • Repair a torn rotator cuff or labrum: Torn tissue is stitched back to the bone.

  • Remove inflamed tissue or bone spurs: To relieve impingement and improve shoulder motion.

  • Tighten loose ligaments: To address shoulder instability.

  • Clean up damaged cartilage: To smooth the joint surface and reduce pain.

Your surgeon will explain the specific procedures planned for your shoulder based on imaging and examination.

Graft Use in Shoulder Arthroscopy
In most shoulder arthroscopy procedures, your own tissue is repaired without the need for grafts. In certain complex cases, such as large rotator cuff tears, grafts (either from the patient or a donor) may be used to reinforce the repair. Your surgeon will discuss this with you if it is recommended.

Addressing Associated Issues
During shoulder arthroscopy, your surgeon can also treat related problems that may be contributing to your symptoms, such as:

  • Cleaning up inflamed tissue: To reduce pain and improve shoulder motion.

  • Managing early arthritis changes: By smoothing the cartilage and addressing joint inflammation.

Treating these issues at the time of surgery helps improve your long-term outcome.

Recovery Process

  • Initial Phase (0–6 Weeks): The shoulder is often placed in a sling, and therapy focuses on gentle, passive range of motion exercises.

  • Intermediate Phase (6–12 Weeks): Therapy progresses to active motion and early strengthening exercises.

  • Advanced Phase (3–6 Months): Strengthening continues, and patients gradually return to regular activities.

  • Full Recovery: Return to sports or heavy labor is typically expected between 4–6 months, depending on the type of repair and progress in therapy.

Risks and Considerations

  • Risk of shoulder stiffness or loss of motion.

  • Risk of incomplete healing, especially in larger tears.

  • Risk of re-tear in rotator cuff repairs over time.

  • Infection or nerve irritation (rare).

  • Need for a second procedure if problems persist or worsen.

Conclusion
Shoulder arthroscopy is an effective, minimally invasive option for treating a range of painful shoulder conditions. If you are experiencing shoulder pain and limited function, contact our office for a full evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to wear a sling after surgery?
Yes. Most patients wear a sling for about 4–6 weeks to protect the shoulder while it begins to heal.

When can I drive after shoulder arthroscopy?
Patients typically return to driving once they are off pain medications and have adequate shoulder control, usually around 4–6 weeks post-surgery.

Will physical therapy be required?
Yes. Physical therapy is crucial to restore range of motion, strength, and function after surgery. Your therapist will guide you through each phase of recovery.

How long is the recovery process?
Most patients regain good shoulder function by 4–6 months, though full recovery for overhead athletes or heavy laborers can take longer.

Will the surgery leave scars?
Only small incisions are made during shoulder arthroscopy, and most patients have minimal scarring.