Michael Fu, MD - HSS Orthopedic Surgeon and Shoulder Specialist

Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

In the evolving field of orthopedic surgery, shoulder arthroscopy stands out as a minimally invasive technique that allows surgeons to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder conditions with precision and efficiency. This advanced procedure has revolutionized the way shoulder problems are addressed, offering patients faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved outcomes.

What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy involves the use of an arthroscope, a small, tube-like instrument equipped with a camera and light source, which is inserted into the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. This approach provides surgeons with a clear view of the shoulder's interior on a video monitor, enabling them to evaluate and repair joint tissues such as muscles, cartilage, and tendons.

Arthroscopic view of a shoulder rotator cuff tear, before and after repair.

Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy can address a multitude of shoulder issues, including but not limited to:

  • Rotator cuff tears: Repairing tears in the muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint.

  • Impingement syndrome: Relieving pressure on the shoulder caused by a bone spur.

  • Shoulder instability: Tightening loose ligaments to prevent dislocation.

  • Labral tears: Repairing tears in the cartilage ring (labrum) around the shoulder socket.

  • Frozen shoulder: Releasing tight tissues around the shoulder to restore movement.

  • Biceps tendinitis: Anchoring the biceps tendon to the bone to treat tears and inflammation.

The Procedure

Performed under a nerve block or regional anesthesia, shoulder arthroscopy begins with small incisions around the shoulder, through which the arthroscope and surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon then assesses and repairs the joint, guided by the images transmitted by the arthroscope. The precision of this technique allows for targeted repairs with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.

Advantages of Shoulder Arthroscopy

The minimally invasive nature of shoulder arthroscopy offers several benefits over traditional open surgery:

  • Reduced Pain and Swelling: Smaller incisions result in less tissue damage.

  • Quicker Recovery: Patients often return to their daily activities sooner.

  • Lower Infection Risk: Small incisions heal faster and are less prone to infection.

  • Less Scarring: Minimally invasive incisions lead to smaller, less noticeable scars.

  • Improved Diagnostic Accuracy: The high-definition camera provides a detailed view of the shoulder, allowing for precise diagnoses.

Recovery Process

Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy varies depending on the specific procedures performed. Initially, patients may need to wear a sling to immobilize the shoulder and manage pain with medications. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. While some patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks, complete recovery, especially after complex repairs, may take several months.

Risks and Considerations

Like all surgical procedures, shoulder arthroscopy carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels. However, these complications are rare, thanks to the procedure's minimally invasive nature and our expertise in being specialized in shoulder surgery.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthroscopy represents a significant advancement in orthopedic surgery, offering an alternative to open surgery with numerous benefits. It enables surgeons to perform precise shoulder repairs with minimal disruption to the patient's life, leading to faster recovery and better overall outcomes. If you're experiencing shoulder pain or dysfunction, feel free to contact our office to determine if shoulder arthroscopy is the right option for you. With the right care, you can return to your active lifestyle with a stronger, more resilient shoulder.

About the Author

Dr. Michael Fu is an orthopedic surgeon and shoulder specialist at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City (NYC) and New Jersey (NJ), the best hospital for orthopedics as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Dr. Fu is an expert at shoulder rotator cuff repair surgery, shoulder instability surgery, and shoulder replacement. Dr. Fu was educated at Columbia University and Yale School of Medicine, followed by orthopedic surgery residency at HSS and sports medicine & shoulder surgery fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He has been a team physician for the Chicago Bulls, Chicago White Sox, DePaul University, and NYC’s PSAL.

Disclaimer: All materials presented on this website are the opinions of Dr. Michael Fu and any guest writers, and should not be construed as medical advice. Each patient’s specific condition is different, and a comprehensive medical assessment requires a full medical history, physical exam, and review of diagnostic imaging. If you would like to seek the opinion of Dr. Michael Fu for your specific case, we recommend contacting our office to make an appointment.