Shoulder arthroscopy

The shoulder is a unique joint because of its completely different range of motion than other joints and the activities it performs resulting in an increased exposure to overloading. Its injuries are a common problem. It is most common in athletes, in whom this type of problem can usually develop slowly, through repetitive and intensive training and minor injuries accumulating (e.g. from weightlifting, tennis or swimming).

• subchondral cramp,
• damage to the rotator cuff, massive calcification of the cone tendons,
• damage to the glenoid ligament,
• structural instability of the shoulder,
• symptomatic damage to articular cartilage,
• instability of the shoulder-clavicular joint,
• the presence of free cartilaginous bodies.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows you to look inside the joint without opening it. It involves inserting an endoscope into the shoulder joint. A camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the joint through a small incision. The shoulder arthroscopy procedure allows for an accurate assessment of the condition of the damaged tissues and thus the repair of the damage or removal of the pathology while saving the adjacent healthy tissues. The procedure takes only 1 hour.

The procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthesia, in a semi-sitting or lying position, but it is also possible to have a full anaesthetic if the patient wishes. Through an incision, called a posterolateral portal, an optical device is introduced, which will transmit an image from inside the joint. The doctor also injects a special fluid, which makes it easier to visualise possible pathologies. Shoulder arthroscopy is one of the most popular procedures due to its numerous advantages, such as

• low invasiveness,
• small scars,
• short stay in the clinic,
• fast rehabilitation,
• the ability to quickly return to daily activities and physical activity.

Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy is an integral part of the treatment process and should be started on the first day after the surgery to improve the recovery process. The period of immobilisation of the shoulder in the brace may vary depending on the type of surgery performed. The movements of the shoulder joint and the arm should be started as soon as possible because too long immobilisation of the shoulder may lead to contractures. Return to full activity thanks to personalized treatment and rehabilitation is possible after 4-6 weeks after the surgery.