What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to inspect, diagnose, and treat problems inside the shoulder joint.
Who Needs Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy can be used to perform various procedures, including:
- Synovectomy: Surgery intended to remove part or all of the synovium, a layer of connective tissue that lines the inside of the joint.
- Capsular Release: A procedure to treat frozen shoulder, a condition where the connective tissue (the capsule) surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight, causing pain and restricted movement.
- SLAP Repair: Stands for Superior Labrum, Anterior to Posterior. It refers to a tear in the cartilage (labrum) around the shoulder socket. This cartilage helps stabilize the shoulder joint. This surgery is intended to repair a torn labrum in the shoulder.
- Bankart Repair: Often, shoulder dislocation tears the labrum (cartilage) around the socket. This tear is called a Bankart lesion. To restore stability to the shoulder, a Bankart repair is performed.
- Subacromial Decompression: Indicated to relieve shoulder pain caused by impingement syndrome, a condition where the rotator cuff tendons become irritated and inflamed as they rub against the bony structure (acromion) of the shoulder.
- Distal Clavicle Resection: The removal of the outer end of the collarbone (clavicle). This is typically done to address pain and limited motion in the shoulder.
- Rotator Cuff Repair: A procedure to repair a torn tendon in the shoulder.
- Biceps Tenodesis: A procedure to address issues with the biceps tendon in the shoulder.
The Procedure:
A small incision is made around the shoulder joint, and a thin, tube-like instrument called an arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions. This instrument contains a tiny camera that transmits images to a video monitor, providing a clear view of the inside of the shoulder joint. Based on the findings, the surgeon will perform various procedures.
Conclusion:
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that results in less postoperative pain and allows for a quicker return to daily life activities. please contact our orthopedic institute for more information and a consultation.
