Shoulder Arthroscopy Specialist

What is shoulder arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a procedure to diagnose and treat problems within your shoulder joint. Arthroscopy requires tiny incisions of around a half-inch long. A pencil-sized arthroscope, which has an internal camera and light, magnifies the inside of your shoulder. 

The inside of your joint appears on a monitor. By viewing the joint in great detail, surgeons can diagnose problems. Then, they can make surgical corrections like repairing tears and removing cartilage using miniature surgical tools.  

When might I need shoulder arthroscopy?

You might need shoulder arthroscopy if you have a shoulder problem such as:

• Rotator cuff damage

• Bone spurs

• Scar tissue 

• Labral tear

• Ligament tear

• Loose cartilage

• Inflamed joint lining 

• Recurrent shoulder dislocations

• Shoulder impingement syndrome

• Frozen shoulder

In many cases, shoulder arthroscopy is a viable alternative to traditional open surgery, so there may also be other situations in which your Orthopaedic Institute of Dayton specialist may recommend this procedure. 

How do I prepare for shoulder arthroscopy?

Before your shoulder arthroscopy, you'll usually need some preoperative tests such as X-rays, lab work, and electrocardiogram (EKG). You may also need to temporarily discontinue certain medications and supplements that increase the risk of bleeding, according to your doctor's instructions.

If you smoke, it's important to stop before your shoulder arthroscopy. Smoking can significantly slow your healing while increasing the risk of surgical and anesthesia complications. 

What are the advantages of shoulder arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy offers many advantages, especially when compared to open shoulder surgery. 

These include:

• Less damage to shoulder tissues

• Shorter recovery time

• Outpatient procedure

• Less pain

• Less risk of infection

• Less scarring

While shoulder arthroscopy does offer a much easier recovery than open shoulder surgery, it's still a surgical procedure that requires some recovery time. You'll learn the specific timeline for recovery before your procedure.

The best way to maximize your recovery after shoulder arthroscopy is to stick with the physical therapy and activity plan prescribed by your doctor. Regular physical therapy can improve your strength, flexibility, and range of motion. 

Orthopaedic Institute of Dayton has the best reputation for orthopedic excellence because their surgeons combine superior skill with compassionate care. Book your appointment by calling the nearest office or clicking the scheduling link now.