Over time, damage to the shoulder can occur due to inflammation or injury. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, may be necessary to repair the shoulder and restore mobility.
Although the procedure has been performed for many years, patients still have questions. With a little education about the surgery, you may feel more prepared to discuss options with your provider.
How is Arthroscopic Surgery Performed?
Arthroscopic surgery is a common procedure at our orthopedic centers in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton.
During arthroscopic surgery, a small camera is inserted through an incision in the shoulder, guiding the surgeon while they repair damaged tissue using small tools. Though it is minimally invasive, the procedure is still performed under anesthesia in an operating room.
The camera is called an arthroscope. The small camera projects onto a monitor, guiding the surgeon to look at the damage and perform the surgery.
After the surgery, the incision is closed with stitches or steri-strips. The patient recovers for 1-2 hours and is then ready to go home with after-care instructions.
Are There Risks to Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
Just as with any surgery, arthroscopic shoulder surgery does carry risk. As with any decision, consider your situation and discuss concerns with your provider.
The most common risk associated with the procedure is stiffness. Stiffness in the shoulder may be temporary or become a long-term complication. It is caused by scar tissue that forms in the shoulder. The best way to manage stiffness is through physical therapy.
Other risks associated with arthroscopic shoulder surgery include:
Weakness:
Some patients experience weakness in the shoulder and arm after the procedure. Physical therapy is important to help regain strength.
Infection:
Infection is rare as the procedure is minimally invasive, but it is always a risk. The risk for infection with arthroscopic procedures is less than .5%
Nerve Damage:
The most severe risk is nerve damage to the arm. Most of the time, the effects are temporary but can become permanent.
It is important to consider the risks before agreeing to surgery, but the potential benefits greatly outweigh the risks.
What are the Benefits of Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
A great benefit to arthroscopic shoulder surgery is minimal scarring and pain. You have movement and freedom restored in the shoulder, without the complications of an invasive procedure.
Healing is generally quick, and within a few days patients often return to regular activities without any restrictions.
Arthroscopic procedures have less scarring and scar tissue than invasive repairs, so movement is restored swiftly. Movement not only provides relief to the arm but will help with further recovery through physical therapy.
Arthroscopic procedures offer a minimal risk of bleeding, bruising, and infection risk. You can get back to life without pain or having to rely long term on harmful medications that carry side effects.
Find out more about Orthopedics in Boca Raton or Boynton Beach
We are one of the nation’s most progressive groups for diagnosing and treating orthopaedic conditions requiring surgery. Our surgeons are board-certified, fellowship-trained, experts in arthroscopic procedures in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach.
If you are experiencing inflammation or pain in the shoulder, consult our experts to get a thorough assessment to see if you are a candidate for arthroscopic surgery. You might benefit from completing the procedure at one of our two locations:
Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation to address your condition. We will work with you on the right diagnosis and treatment plan so you find relief and resume normalcy in your life.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
