Arthroscopic shoulder surgery
Surgical information leaflet:
Why would arthroscopic surgery be needed?
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles in your upper arm that assists with the mobility of your shoulder. Particularly, this collection of tissues ensures that you can rotate your arm effectively. The tendons and muscles of the rotator cuff are the most commonly injured parts of the shoulder. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is needed to repair rotator cuff tears, and that can restrict the mobility of your arm and cause discomfort. This procedure is minimally invasive and involves small surgical incisions. In some cases, however, Dr Oosthuizen may opt to perform open shoulder surgery for better access to the damaged tendons in the rotator cuff instead.
Rotator cuff injuries are generally characterised by:
- Dull pain in the shoulder and arm
- Weakness in the arm
- Difficulty rotating the arm upward
Rotator cuff injuries can be caused by trauma to the shoulder experienced during strenuous physical exercise. The tendons can also degenerate over time due to wear and tear associated with regular lifting in industrial work environments. If left untreated, rotator cuff injuries can reduce the mobility and strength of the shoulder.
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How is it done?
Dr Oosthuizen will perform arthroscopic shoulder surgery to repair tears in the tendons of the rotator cuff without making large, invasive surgical incisions. This form of shoulder surgery is an option when the rotator cuff tear is minor or relatively simple to repair through small, minimally invasive incisions.
During the procedure, Dr Oosthuizen will insert an arthroscope featuring a tiny camera into one of the small incisions. He will use the arthroscope to examine the tissues of the rotator cuff and pinpoint the tendons that need repair. Using other small surgical tools, Dr Oosthuizen will then work to stitch the damaged tendons and reattach them to the bones. This is usually a same-day procedure.
What can be expected after surgery?
You will be allowed to return home several hours after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Dr Oosthuizen will prescribe pain relievers and advise you on how to take care of your wounds as you heal. You may need to wear a sling or brace to prevent movement in your arm during this process. After several weeks of restricted movement, you will need to begin physical therapy to help regain proper mobility in your arm. Your recovery time could range from weeks to months, depending on the extent of your shoulder repairs.
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Arthroscopic shoulder surgery lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
General anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia may be administered.
Rehabilitation depends on the type of procedure done.
