Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic (Closed) Shoulder Surgery

Arthroscopy is a procedure used to evaluate, diagnose, and repair joint disorders. Our Orthopedic Doctors have successfully done arthroscopic shoulder procedures. The need for surgery is determined after a thorough assessment and examination. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery involves inserting an arthroscope, which has a camera at the end, into the shoulder joint. The images from the cameras are displayed on the monitor, and the operation begins.

How is Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Performed?
Local anesthetic is generally used to numb the operation site prior to shoulder surgery.The surgeon first injects fluid into the shoulder to inflate it, making it easier to examine all of the shoulder components through the arthroscope.
He then makes a small incision in the shoulder to insert the arthroscope. The images from the arthroscope are projected onto the video screen.
After intervening in the problem area, the small incision sites are sutured.
Since the surgical instruments used during closed shoulder surgery are very small, very small wounds are opened compared to open surgery. This results in less pain for patients. Patients' recovery and return to their daily lives are shortened.

In Which Cases Is It Performed?
If the patient has a painful condition that does not respond to non-surgical treatments, the doctor may recommend shoulder arthroscopy. Non-surgical treatment includes rest, physical therapy and medications or injections that can reduce inflammation. Inflammation is one of the body's normal responses to injury or disease. Inflammation in an injured or diseased shoulder joint causes swelling, pain and stiffness.

Most shoulder problems are caused by injury, overloading the shoulder and age-related wear and tear. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is performed to relieve the painful symptoms of many problems such as recurrent shoulder dislocation, rotator cuff tear, capsular strain. Less common procedures such as nerve release, fracture repair and cyst removal can also be performed using an arthroscope.

Before Surgery
Before arthroscopic shoulder surgery, blood tests, an electrocardiogram or chest x-ray may be ordered to perform the surgery safely.
If the patient has certain health risks, a more thorough evaluation may be required before surgery.
The doctor will be informed about any medications or supplements being taken. According to the doctor's recommendation, some medications may be stopped before the operation.
Depending on the length of the operation and the patient's health condition, the appropriate anesthesia method is determined.
Necessary controls are made by the anesthesiologist and the patient is prepared for surgery.
After Surgery
Patients are routinely monitored in the hospital for 1-2 hours after closed shoulder surgery before being discharged. Some pain and discomfort are to be expected for at least one week following surgery.However, if a complicated surgery was performed, it may take several weeks for the pain to subside. Ice will help to relieve pain and swelling. The doctor may prescribe painkillers if necessary. Opioid analgesics are very effective in relieving severe pain but can be addictive.

It is important to use opioids only as prescribed by the doctor. These medications should be stopped as soon as the pain starts to improve. A few days after surgery, the large bandage can be replaced with a simple band-aid. A sling will most likely be needed to protect the shoulder. The doctor will inform the patient how long the sling will be needed.