Shoulder Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that involves several small incisions into which a fiber-optic device (arthroscope) and tiny surgical instruments are inserted. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat many different shoulder conditions with arthroscopy, while patients can benefit from less tissue damage, shorter recovery times, less scarring and less post-operative pain. This technique also avoids cutting any muscles or tendons in order to gain access to the affected area.
Shoulder arthroscopy is often performed to confirm a diagnosis after a physical examination and other imaging procedures have been performed. Some conditions can also be treated during the same procedure by inserting a few additional instruments into the joint area.
Arthroscopy can be used to treat many conditions that affect the shoulder joint. Shoulder arthroscopy, also known as shoulder scope, can be used to treat:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears
- Impingement syndrome
- Biceps tendonitis
- AC joint arthritis
While arthroscopy offers many benefits over a traditional open procedure, it is not for everybody. Some conditions, especially those that are not easily visible with the arthroscopic camera, may be better suited for traditional surgery. Your doctor will decide which type of procedure is right for you.
Shoulder Resurfacing
Because of its prominent location and frequent use, the shoulder is often affected by chronic conditions such as arthritis and osteonecrosis (bone death) that cause patients to suffer from pain, swelling, stiffness and a limited range of motion that often progresses over time and restricts patients from engaging in activities they enjoy.
Treatment for these conditions can range from anti-inflammatory medication to corticosteroid injections to joint replacement surgery for the most severe cases. For patients who are not candidates for joint replacement or do not yet wish to undergo this procedure, a less invasive alternative is now available through shoulder resurfacing, which relieves symptoms while preserving the healthy areas of the joint.
Shoulder resurfacing uses a implant that is precisely shaped to fit each patient’s area of damaged cartilage so that all remaining healthy cartilage remains intact while the implant provides effective symptom relief. The implant is placed using arthroscopic means to provide patients with less scarring, less bleeding and shorter recovery times.
After undergoing shoulder resurfacing, patients will begin a rehabilitation program to restore strength and range of motion to the treated joint. Return to work and other regular activities can usually commence shortly after treatment. The results of the shoulder resurfacing procedure tend to last for many years and can effectively postpone or eliminate the need for joint replacement, depending on each patient’s individual condition.
