Shoulder injuries are common among people of all ages. This technique developed for the surgical evaluation and treatment of a variety of shoulder conditions - allows for speedier recovery, less scarring, and fewer complications than open surgery.
If you are suffering from a shoulder pain, we provide nothing but the best for your debilitating pain. Shoulder Arthroscopy is a valuable surgery that will restore the functionality of your shoulder. We are available to assist you in every step to you help you get your strength back in a short time with faster recovery with skilled orthopedic surgeons and hospital care.
In Shoulder Arthroscopy, the surgeon evaluates the shoulder region and fixes the tears through small incisions using special devices and instruments. The Arthroscope consists of a camera and light to inspect, evaluate, and repair problems of the joint. It is a minimally invasive procedure that guarantees less pain. It deals with diseases involving the bones, ligaments, tissues, cartilage, tendons, and muscles of the shoulder joint.
The instruments are taken out and, incisions are closed either with stitches or small sterile bandages.
Follow-up should be done a week or so after surgery.
Q: Why should I opt for Shoulder Arthroscopy?
A: If physical therapy, medication and, injections fail to restore your shoulder mobility, then you should choose Shoulder Arthroscopy for better functionality.
A: During surgery, you will be given general anesthesia so will not feel any pain. However, after surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort. This will be controlled by giving you pain medications.
Q: What is the prognosis of Shoulder Arthroscopy?
A: It results in lesser pain and shorter recovery. Shoulder stiffness is reduced, and stability is also maintained. But sometimes, shoulder stability may not be regained after surgery and, you may not gain your full strength after a repair on the rotator cuff.
Q: How successful is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
A: It is more successful than open surgery as itis less painful and takes a shorter time to heal and recover. In case of a shoulder dislocation repair, the success rate can be as high as 90% whereas for impingement or rotator cuff tears, it is around 95%.
A: If you are healthy with no complicated medical condition, you do not need to stay in the hospital. You only need to stay for up to 2 hours after surgery before being discharged.
A: It takes about an hour or more depending on the complications.
Q: Why is fluid pumped into the surgical site?
A: Fluid is filled inside your shoulder so that the shoulder will swell and aid visualization for the surgeon to evaluate and repair the needful.
Q: Why is it less painful than an open surgery?
A: Shoulder Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery which means only a small area is cut open for surgery so that through the camera, light, and instruments, an operation could be done from the monitor nearby. This also enables quicker recovery.
Q: Is developing complications a common occurrence after surgery?
A: Like any surgery, risks and complications are a possibility but not very common for Shoulder Arthroplasty.
Q: What if my surgery failed?
A: A failed surgery happens when it does not fulfill the expectation of the patient and surgeon. A re-evaluation and management should be done for a re-repair.
Q: When can I take bath or shower?
A: You can bathe or shower after the surgery if you keep the wounded area dry with waterproof bandages. But if it is wet, you must dry it right after a shower and put a new dressing to it. You must avoid soaking or swimming for at least 2 weeks until the wound is completely healed.
Q: What is my chance of wearing a sling?
A: If you had surgery for a case like a rotator cuff tear or shoulder dislocation, you will need to wear a sling for about 4 weeks. Long-term use of a sling is not advised as it could lead to frozen shoulder with loss of motion.
Q: Should I take off my sling while sleeping?
A: You should only take off your sling while showering. You should sleep with your sling on and find your comfort zone by propping yourself with pillows or sleep in a reclining chair. Make sure you don’t sleep on the side of your operated arm or use it to push yourself.
Q: Will I need a physical therapy?
A: Yes, if your surgery is complex.
A: You must not drive while wearing a sling. You must consult with your orthopedic surgeon when it is safe for you to be on the wheels.
A: Depending on your surgery, this could take a few weeks to 6 months.
A: Travelling is recommended 2 weeks after surgery. Consult with your doctor for the best time. Make sure you familiarize yourself with travel guidelines of the prospective airline as you may need to avail their services.