Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery 

Arthroscopy is a procedure that orthopaedic surgeons use to inspect, diagnose, and repair problems inside a joint. The word arthroscopy means "to look within the joint." During shoulder arthroscopy, your surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, in and around your shoulder joint. The camera displays live images on a video screen, and your surgeon uses these images to maneuver surgical instruments in and around your shoulder joint. Because the arthroscope and other surgical instruments are small in diameter, your surgeon can often use very small incisions (cuts), compared to larger incisions required for standard, “open” surgery.

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Arthroscopic shoulder procedures can therefore result in less pain for patients, and possibly shorten recovery times (compared to “open” shoulder procedures). Sometimes a combination of arthroscopic and “mini-open” techniques is required. Your surgeon will discuss if arthroscopic surgery or open surgery is most appropriate for your condition during the consultation.

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Common arthroscopic shoulder procedures include:

• Rotator cuff repair

• Labral repair (for recurrent shoulder dislocations)

• Transfer or release of the biceps tendon (“tenodesis” or “tenotomy”)

• AC joint debridement/distal clavicle excision (for AC joint arthritis)

• Sub-acromial decompression/bursectomy (for shoulder impingement syndrome)

• Removal of loose bodies

Like all surgery, there are associated risks. Your Ortho South surgeon will discuss these with you in greater detail before surgery. Physical therapy and realistic expectations are important for successful recovery.