Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a closed surgical procedure used in the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal conditions in the shoulder joint. In this surgery, a camera (arthroscope) is inserted through small incisions in the shoulder area and the intervention is performed with special surgical instruments. Compared to traditional open surgery, it is frequently preferred because it causes less tissue damage, offers a fast healing process and carries a lower risk of complications.

In Which Situations Is Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Performed?

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is an effective solution for many problems that cause pain, limitation of movement and loss of function in the shoulder joint. The most common areas of application are:

• Rotator cuff (shoulder muscles) tears
• Shoulder impingement syndrome (impingement)
• Labrum tears (SLAP lesions)
• Shoulder dislocations and recurrent dislocations
• Shoulder arthritis
• Tendon inflammation and tendinitis
• Removal of intra-articular free bodies

Such disorders can be both examined in detail and surgically repaired in the same session with the arthroscopic method.

What is the Surgical Process?

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. 2-3 small incisions are made in the shoulder area. One of these incisions is used to place the camera and the others are used to place the surgical instruments. With the help of the camera, the inside of the joint is visualized in detail and the necessary treatment is applied.

The duration of surgery can vary between 1 and 2 hours on average. Patients are usually discharged on the same day. However, in some cases it may be necessary to stay overnight in hospital.

Postoperative Recovery Process

The recovery period after arthroscopic shoulder surgery may vary depending on the extent of the surgical intervention. In mild cases, you can return to normal activities within a few weeks, while in more extensive repairs, this may take up to several months.

Things to consider during the healing process:

• It is recommended to use a shoulder strap for the first few days
• Cold application and prescribed medications should be used for swelling and pain
• Physiotherapy is very important for restoring mobility
• The exercise program recommended by the doctor should be continued regularly

Advantages of Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

• Minimal tissue damage
• Aesthetic advantage thanks to small incisions
• Less pain and faster recovery
• Low risk of infection
• Return to daily life in a short time