Shoulder arthroscopy is a procedure used to diagnose and treat problems with the shoulder. Your shoulder will be repaired through small incisions made by your healthcare provider. Shoulder arthroscopic is performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you can return home the same day. Though complete recovery may take weeks or months, exercise and physical therapy can assist in the healing process. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery West Chester aids in locating and treating shoulder pain that has not responded to nonsurgical therapy. Physical therapy, medication, injections, and rest are nonsurgical treatments for shoulder pain.
What happens before arthroscopic shoulder surgery
Your doctor will inquire about your medical history before performing a shoulder arthroscopy. You will also have to bring a complete list of your medications. Some of your medications may need to be ceased a few days before your surgery. Your hospital will give you particular instructions, including how long you should wait to eat and drink before the surgery. You may also require the following tests to assess your health before your process:
- Tests on the blood.
- An X-ray of the chest.
- Electrocardiogram.
The procedure of arthroscopic shoulder surgery
Shoulder arthroscopy is usually completed in less than an hour. During a shoulder arthroscopy:
- You will be semi-seated (beach chair position) or lying on your side.
- If necessary, your surgical team will shave your hair and clean your skin with an antiseptic solution. They may put your arm in a holding device to keep it still.
- A medical professional may inject fluid into your shoulder. The fluid inflates your shoulder joint, making the surgeon’s job easier.
- Your surgeon will make a small hole in your shoulder, about the size of a buttonhole. The tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted through this incision.
- A video screen is projected with images of your shoulder from the camera. Your surgeon will use these images to diagnose the problem with your shoulder.
- Your surgeon will make other small incisions in your shoulder and insert tiny instruments.
- After your surgery, your surgical team will close the incisions. You may have stitches or small bandages on top of a larger bandage.
What happens following a shoulder arthroscopy
The entire technique is usually done in less than an hour. After surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for an hour or two to recover. If pain medication is required, your providers will provide it. You will need a ride home after that. It is ideal if a friend or family member can join you for the night.
Is arthroscopic shoulder surgery painful?
All surgery is painful. Conversely, the anesthesia staff at your hospital will be concerned with keeping you comfortable during surgery. They will discuss your options with you. During shoulder arthroscopy surgery, nerve blocks are frequently injected into your neck or shoulder. These nerve blocks cause numbness in your shoulder and arm. They also aid in pain relief following surgery. In some cases, you may be given general anesthesia, putting you to sleep during your surgery. Pain is a regular part of the healing step. Discuss your concerns with your medical providers. They can give you advice on dealing with pain as your body heals.
Shoulder issues are frequently treatable without surgery, but arthroscopic shoulder surgery makes the necessary repairs easier. Call Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine or book a consultation to learn more about arthroscopic shoulder surgery.