Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
Various shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears, impingement, labral tears, and instability, can be diagnosed and treated using arthroscopic shoulder surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure. The shoulder joint is visualized and repaired using a tiny camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments during arthroscopic surgery, as opposed to traditional open surgery.
Preparation
Following are the steps typically involved in arthroscopic shoulder surgery preparation:
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Your orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough medical evaluation before the surgery to assess your overall health, review your medical history, and discuss any medications you are taking.
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To assess the extent of your shoulder injury and plan the surgical approach, your surgeon may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
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Usually starting at midnight the night before the surgery, you may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period before surgery.
Procedure
There are several key steps involved in arthroscopic shoulder surgery:
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Depending on the specific procedure and your surgeon's preference, you may receive either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia.
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To insert the arthroscope and specialized surgical instruments, your surgeon will make small incisions around the shoulder joint.
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An arthroscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light source, is inserted through one of the incisions to provide a clear view of the inside of the shoulder joint on a monitor.
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Using small surgical instruments inserted through the other incisions, your surgeon will repair or remove damaged tissue, such as torn ligaments, inflamed bursa, or damaged cartilage.
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Following the necessary repairs, the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery
The following are typical recovery steps after arthroscopic shoulder surgery:
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During the immediate postoperative period, you will be monitored in the recovery room until you are awake and stable. If you are experiencing discomfort, pain medication may be prescribed to manage it.
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For shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion restoration, your surgeon may recommend a customized physical therapy program. In most cases, physical therapy begins shortly after surgery and continues for several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the injury.
Risks
The risks and complications of arthroscopic shoulder surgery include:
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A possible complication of any surgery is infection at the surgical site or inside the joint. Antibiotics can reduce the risk of infection.
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During or after surgery, excessive bleeding can occur, requiring further treatment.
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Damage to nerves or blood vessels around the shoulder joint is rare, but it can happen.
Aftercare
You should follow your surgeon's instructions for aftercare after arthroscopic shoulder surgery, including:
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During the initial healing period, rest the shoulder as instructed by your surgeon and avoid activities that may strain or overexert the joint.
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To promote healing and restore shoulder function, attend all scheduled physical therapy sessions and perform prescribed exercises at home.
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Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress, evaluate your healing, and address any concerns or complications.
You can optimize your recovery and achieve the best possible outcomes from arthroscopic shoulder surgery by following your surgeon's recommendations for aftercare and rehabilitation.
