Arthroscopy is a procedure which helps orthopedists view, diagnose and treat problems within the joint cavity. The arthroscopic equipment is minimal, so that only tiny incisions can be made, leaving minimal scars on the joint and facilitating recovery after the procedure.
Arthroscopy of the shoulder has been in use since the 1970s and has made the diagnosis, treatment and recovery of the shoulder easier and faster than in the past. From year to year the arthroscopy techniques improve and allow for further relief for the patients.
When is arthroscopy recommended?
Your doctor may recommend performing arthroscopy of the shoulder if you suffer from pain or other limiting medical condition which does not respond as expected to non-surgical treatments, such as rest, physiotherapy, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and intra-articular anti-inflammatory injections.
Common reasons for performing arthroscopy include rotating tendon injury, repair of the bromine, repair of ligaments, removal of inflammatory tissue or loose cartilage, and repairs to prevent recurrent dislocations. There are other less common reasons to perform arthroscopy .
The course of the procedure
Arthroscopy can be performed under general or regional anesthesia, depending on the duration and nature of the expected procedure. The duration of the arthroscopy also varies according to the planned procedure and will last at least about half an hour.
After anesthesia and positioning the shoulder in the appropriate position for the procedure, a tiny incision will be made in the shoulder, through which the camera will be inserted and transmit live video to a nearby screen. If necessary, an opening or two more will be used to insert various devices with which the surgery itself will be performed.
Preparation for arthroscopy
Prior to surgery, a thorough examination must be performed by an orthopedic specialist, and the preliminary examinations performed along with medical records must be examined. Sometimes it is necessary to perform additional tests before the surgery in order to plan the most appropriate route for each patient.
It is important to bring the letter of release from the original screening and the xrays, if any, for examination.
An anesthesiologist should be consulted if the surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It is mandatory to be on a full food fast according to staff instructions.
Recovery after procedure
Arthroscopy is a short operation and the patient can usually be discharged within a few hours. After the procedure, it is important to keep the arm on the arm sling and take painkillers in accordance with the doctor's recommendation. Thereafter, the doctor may recommend performing shoulder strengthening exercises and physiotherapy, in order to return the arm to full function as much as possible.
Possible complications
Most patients do not experience complications after arthroscopy of the shoulder, but as with any surgical procedure, there are risks in this case as well, even if they are mostly small and easy to treat. Risks include local infection, bleeding, development of blood clots or damage to blood vessels and nerves in the joint area
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