At a glance
Main symptoms
- Traumatic or degenerative rotator cuff tears
- SLAP lesions (superior labral tears)
- Bankart lesions (anterior labral tears, instability)
- Hospital stay
- 1 overnight hospital stay is typical, same-day discharge in some cases.
- Recovery time
- 4–6 months
- Return to work
- Desk work in 2-3 weeks, light physical work in 2-3 months, heavy work in 6-9 months.
Shoulder arthroscopy is a modern technique where the shoulder joint is evaluated through small portals with a camera and surgical repairs are performed. Compared to open surgery, soft tissue damage is minimal, pain is less, and recovery is faster. It is used for rotator cuff tears, labral tears, frozen shoulder, calcific tendinitis, biceps tendon pathologies, and many other shoulder problems.
Symptoms
Shoulder problems requiring arthroscopic repair:
- Traumatic or degenerative rotator cuff tears
- SLAP lesions (superior labral tears)
- Bankart lesions (anterior labral tears, instability)
- Calcific tendinitis
- Subacromial impingement
- Frozen shoulder (arthroscopic capsular release)
- Biceps tendon pathologies
Diagnostic Methods
Diagnosis is made by detailed clinical examination, X-rays, and MRI (MR arthrography when needed). EMG (nerve injury suspicion) and US (dynamic assessment) are supportive in some cases.
Treatment Approach
Non-Surgical Treatments
Before every surgical decision, conservative treatment is tried: physical therapy (minimum 3-6 months), NSAIDs, activity modification, subacromial cortisone injection. If these are insufficient or structural damage (e.g., full-thickness tear) exists, surgery is considered.
Surgical Treatment
Arthroscopic technique allows direct visualization and repair. Securing torn tendons to bone with suture anchors, repairing torn labrum, cleaning synovitis and adhesions, shaving bone projections, biceps tendon repair or tenodesis can all be performed arthroscopically.
Surgical Process
Under general anesthesia and interscalene block, patient in lateral or semi-seated position. 3-5 small portals are made. Procedure lasts 1-3 hours.
Hospital Stay
1 overnight hospital stay is typical, same-day discharge in some cases.
Recovery Process
- Weeks 0-6: Sling use, only passive exercises (varies by repair)
- Weeks 6-12: Active-assisted exercises, sling discontinued
- Months 3-6: Active exercises, strengthening
- Months 6-9: Full function, return to sports
Return to Work
Desk work in 2-3 weeks, light physical work in 2-3 months, heavy work in 6-9 months.
Potential Complications
Arthroscopy complication rate is 3-5%, lower than open surgery. Possible problems: frozen shoulder, infection, nerve injury (temporary), re-tear, anchor failure.
Frequently asked questions
How much better is arthroscopy vs open surgery?
In correct indication, arthroscopy gives same or better results as open surgery; additionally less pain, smaller scar, faster return.
When is open surgery needed?
Very large (massive) tears, cases requiring prosthesis, complex traumas, and situations where arthroscopic repair is inadequate.
Can multiple procedures be done in one session?
Yes, in shoulder arthroscopy, labral repair, rotator cuff repair, and impingement surgery can be done simultaneously. Big advantage for complex cases.
This content is for information only and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment. The right treatment for you is decided after an examination.