Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery

What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and surgical procedure performed for joint problems. Shoulder arthroscopy is performed using a pencil-sized instrument called an arthroscope which is inserted into the shoulder joint. The arthroscope consists of a light system and camera that projects images onto a computer screen for Dr. Jay to view the inside of the joint. Arthroscopy may be used to treat disease conditions and injuries involving the bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and muscles of the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Anatomy

The shoulder joint is made up of a ball and socket joint, where the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) articulates with the socket of the scapula (shoulder blade) called the glenoid. The two articulating surfaces of the bones are covered with cartilage, which prevents friction between the moving bones enabling smooth movement. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.

Indications of Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is indicated to treat the following shoulder conditions when conservative treatment such as medication and therapy fails to relieve pain and disability:

•   Shoulder Impingement: this occurs when the shoulder blade applies pressure on the underlying soft tissues when the arm is lifted
•   Rotator cuff tear
•   Frozen shoulder or stiffness of the shoulder joint
•   Shoulder Instability: this occurs when the head of the upper arm bone slips out of the socket of the shoulder blade’s glenoid cavity either due to injury or overuse
•   Damaged cartilage or ligaments
•   SLAP tear
•   Bone spurs or bony projections

Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure

Dr. Jay performs shoulder arthroscopy under general or regional anesthesia. You may be positioned sitting in a semi-seated position called beach-chair position. Sterile fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to expand the surgical area, so Dr. Jay has a clear view of the damage and room to work. A button-sized hole is made in the shoulder and the arthroscope is inserted. Dr. Jay can view images captured by the camera in the arthroscope on a large monitor. Surgical instruments are introduced into the joint through separate small holes to remove and repair the damage to the joint. After surgery, the instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches or small sterile bandage strips.

Rehabilitation

Following your shoulder arthroscopy you will be placed in an arm pouch to rest your arm. You will be initiated on hand, finger, wrist and elbow exercises. Shoulder exercises may begin soon after surgery or after delay by a few days depending on the procedure undertaken.

For further information, booking a consultation, and to plan your Shoulder Arthroscopy- contact us