Shoulder arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. Treatment is carried out under the control of a camera and a small lens that allows you to observe the inside of the pond. Instead of a large wound, several centimeters long, it is carried out through two, 5-8 mm incisions. Thanks to this, a faster recovery of the patient is possible and the risk of perioperative infection is reduced. This is especially important in the case of the shoulder joint, the open access of which is very extensive.

During this procedure, a fluid is inserted into the joint, which stretches the joint capsule and helps to obtain a proper image of its interior. Direct access makes it possible to search for and find damaged tissues and then treat them. Minimal surgical instruments are inserted through the skin incisions to clean, remove or sew the tissues inside the joint without opening it.

The doctor who will perform this procedure qualifies the patient for arthroscopic surgery. In addition to the clinical examination, the attending physician requires a diagnostic ultrasound of the joint or MRI. It is often necessary to perform an X-ray of the joint. After consultation and agreeing with the patient the type and indications for surgery, the date of the operation is set.

After the procedure, the patient receives painkillers for several days. After arthroscopy, the shoulder is fixed in a stabilizer. The time of immobilization varies depending on the type of surgery performed. It should be emphasized that Patients after arthroscopic procedures absolutely require constant monitoring of the attending physician and further rehabilitation assistance.

It is recommended to limit physical activity to the minimum necessary for at least a week. Sitting, standing and walking is possible in the first 24 hours after the surgery. The recovery time and the course of rehabilitation strictly depend on the type of surgery performed under the arthroscope and the subsequent recommendations of the attending physician.