Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery In Delhi, India

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the shoulder joint. It is performed using an arthroscope, a thin, tube-like instrument equipped with a camera and light source. This lets the surgeon see inside the joint and perform the necessary repairs without making large incisions. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a valuable option for individuals with shoulder conditions that can be effectively treated with minimally invasive techniques.

Procedure Type
Minimally Invasive

Speciality
Orthopaedics

Body location
Shoulder

When is Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Performed?

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is done for many reasons, such as:

• Rotator Cuff Tears: Rotator cuff tears are one of many common causes of shoulder pain and are often treated with arthroscopic surgery. It is caused by sports injuries or repetitive overhead movements, and arthroscopic surgery can repair the torn tendons using minimally invasive techniques.
• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: It occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa become pinched or compressed, leading to shoulder pain and limited mobility. Arthroscopic surgery is often used to treat shoulder impingement syndrome  to remove any bony spurs or inflamed tissue causing the impingement.
• Shoulder Instability: Shoulder instability could be caused by a dislocated shoulder or a tear in the labrum, which is the cartilage that lines the shoulder joint. Arthroscopic surgery is often used to repair these types of injuries, as it can provide a minimally invasive way to stabilise the shoulder and prevent future dislocations.
• Frozen Shoulder: Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, refers to the condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, which makes it difficult to move the arm. Arthroscopic surgery may be recommended as it releases the tightness in the shoulder capsule and restores range of motion.
• Bursitis: Bursitis is a condition in which the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint) becomes inflamed. Arthroscopic surgery may be necessary in India for chronic cases of bursitis that do not respond to non-surgical treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy.

Preparation for Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

• The doctor will take the patient's personal and family medical history. 
• The patient will have to undergo lab, diagnostic and imaging tests like blood tests and x-ray to ensure they are fit for the procedure.
• The doctor may start or stop certain medications before the procedure; they will also ask what the patient is using currently. 
• It is advised that individuals quit smoking a few weeks before the procedure as it interferes with healing. 
• Exercising regularly before the procedure can help with post-operative healing.

How is Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Performed?

• General or local anaesthesia is administered. It takes between 30 minutes and two hours to complete, depending on the type of joint being examined and the extent of the condition.
• The surgeon will make small incisions around the joint to be examined. These incisions are usually made near the joint, where the skin is thinnest.
• The arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions, and the joint is filled with a saline solution to help the surgeon see the inside more clearly.
•  The surgeon uses the arthroscope to examine the inside of the joint, looking for any signs of damage, inflammation, or other problems.
• The surgeon can use small instruments inserted through the other incisions to repair or remove damaged tissue, such as torn cartilage or loose fragments of bone.
• The incisions are closed with surgical staples or sutures, and a dressing is applied.

Risks of Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

Some risks of arthroscopic shoulder surgery include:

• Anaesthesia related complications
• Shoulder stiffness
• Persistent pain
• Blood vessel injury
• Nerve damage
• Blood clots

Recovery of Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

• Patients must not lift heavy objects, perform strenuous activities or operate heavy machinery.
• The doctor may put a splint or immobiliser in place for stability and comfort.
• It can take around 6 months to return to daily activities and up to a year for a full recovery.
• Regular follow-ups can help doctors monitor for any complications.
• Patients are encouraged to take physical therapy to help strengthen their shoulders.
• Pain relief medications are provided to keep patients comfortable while they heal. 

FAQs

Q1. How long does it take to recover from arthroscopic shoulder surgery?

The recovery time after arthroscopic shoulder surgery may take upto several weeks to a few months to fully recover. Factors such as the extent of the surgery, the individual's overall health, and their physical therapy program can affect the recovery time.

Q2. Is arthroscopic shoulder surgery painful?

There is an amount of pain associated with surgery, but the level of discomfort will vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Pain medication and physical therapy help manage the pain and speed up recovery.

Q3. What should you not do after shoulder arthroscopy?

After arthroscopic shoulder surgery, you may need to avoid certain activities, such as overhead lifting and reaching, for some time. Your physical therapist will provide specific guidelines and recommendations for what you should and shouldn't do after the surgery.

Q4. Can I go for walks after shoulder surgery?

Walking can help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote healing. However, it is important to follow your physical therapist's guidelines and not push yourself too hard, as this can slow down the recovery process.

Q5. How long do you wear a sling after arthroscopic shoulder surgery?

The duration of time you need to wear a sling after arthroscopic shoulder surgery will depend on the individual and the extent of the surgery. In general, it is recommended to wear a sling for a few weeks after the surgery to protect the shoulder, allowing it to heal.

Q6. Can one wait too long for rotator cuff surgery?

It's best to treat a rotator cuff injury as soon as possible to avoid further damage and promote healing. However, some rotator cuff injuries can be managed with physical therapy and non-surgical treatments, so it's important to discuss all of your options with your doctor.

Review

Reviewed by Dr. Raju Easwaran, Principal Consultant  – Orthopaedics Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy Sports Injury on 1-May-2024.