Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. It involves using a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted through small incisions around the shoulder joint. This allows the surgeon to visualize the inside of the shoulder joint on a monitor and perform surgical procedures with specialized instruments.
Here’s an overview of shoulder arthroscopy:
- Diagnostic Arthroscopy: In some cases, shoulder arthroscopy is performed primarily for diagnostic purposes. The surgeon inserts the arthroscope into the shoulder joint to assess the extent of damage, such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, cartilage injuries, or inflammation of the lining of the joint (synovitis). This allows for a more accurate diagnosis and helps guide the appropriate treatment plan.
- Surgical Procedures: Shoulder arthroscopy can also be used to perform various surgical procedures to treat specific shoulder conditions. Common procedures include:
- Rotator Cuff Repair: Repair of torn rotator cuff tendons using sutures or anchors to reattach the tendon to the bone.
- Labral Repair or Debridement: Repair or removal of a torn or damaged labrum, which is the ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint.
- Subacromial Decompression: Removal of bone spurs or inflamed tissue in the subacromial space to relieve pressure on the rotator cuff tendons.
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Resection or Reconstruction: Treatment of AC joint arthritis or instability through resection of the end of the clavicle or reconstruction of the ligaments.
- Bankart Repair: Surgical repair of a torn labrum in cases of anterior shoulder instability (recurrent dislocations).
- Capsular Release: Release of tight or contracted joint capsule tissue to improve range of motion in cases of adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).
- Cartilage Repair or Microfracture: Treatment of cartilage defects or lesions through techniques such as debridement, microfracture, or cartilage transplantation.
- Recovery and Rehabilitation: Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy is typically faster than traditional open surgery, as it involves smaller incisions and less tissue trauma. After surgery, patients may need to wear a sling to support the shoulder and protect the surgical site. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential components of recovery, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the shoulder joint. The specific rehabilitation program will depend on the type of procedure performed and the individual patient’s needs.
- Complications: While shoulder arthroscopy is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve or blood vessel injury, stiffness, or failure of the repair. It’s essential for patients to follow their surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully and to report any unusual symptoms or complications promptly.
Overall, shoulder arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions, offering patients less invasive surgical options and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
