Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery in Delhi NCR
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical
procedure used to diagnose and treat various conditions within the shoulder
joint. Over the past few decades, it has emerged as a preferred alternative to
open surgery for many orthopedic issues. With advancements in technology and
surgical techniques, shoulder arthroscopy offers patients quicker recovery
times, less post-operative pain, and minimal scarring.
What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
arthroscopy, surgeons use a small camera called an
arthroscope to view the inside of the shoulder joint. This camera is inserted
through a small incision, and the images from the arthroscope are projected
onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to see the internal structures of the
shoulder clearly.
Other small incisions are made to insert surgical
instruments. This approach allows doctors to treat various shoulder issues with
precision, without the need for large incisions that are common in traditional
open surgeries.
Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat many
shoulder conditions, such as:
- Rotator
Cuff Tears: A common injury, especially in athletes and older adults.
Arthroscopy helps in repairing torn tendons in the rotator cuff.
- Shoulder
Impingement Syndrome: This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff
are compressed during shoulder movements. Arthroscopy is used to remove
inflamed tissue or bone spurs.
- Labral
Tears: Injuries to the cartilage ring (labrum) around the shoulder
socket, often seen in dislocations or repetitive stress injuries.
- Frozen
Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Arthroscopy can release tight or
inflamed tissues, improving mobility.
- Shoulder
Instability: When the shoulder joint is too loose or frequently
dislocates, arthroscopic procedures can tighten the ligaments.
- Arthritis:
Although not a cure for arthritis, arthroscopy can help clean the joint
space and provide relief from symptoms.
The Procedure
Shoulder arthroscopy is usually performed under regional or
general anesthesia. During the procedure:
- The
patient is positioned, often in a beach chair or lateral decubitus
position.
- The
surgeon makes small incisions (about the size of a buttonhole).
- The
arthroscope is inserted, and sterile fluid is used to expand the joint and
provide a clear view.
- After
diagnosing the issue, the surgeon inserts small instruments through
additional incisions to perform the repair.
- Once
the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed, and the incisions
are closed with sutures or surgical tape.
The duration of the surgery can vary from 30 minutes to over
an hour depending on the complexity.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers
several advantages:
- Smaller
incisions: Less tissue damage and scarring.
- Reduced
pain and swelling: Due to minimal disruption of tissues.
- Shorter
hospital stay: Often performed as a day-care procedure.
- Faster
recovery: Patients can return to daily activities sooner.
- Lower
risk of infection: Smaller wounds heal faster and are less likely to
get infected.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy varies depending on the
type of procedure performed and the individual’s overall health. Most patients
wear a sling for a few days to weeks to support the shoulder. Physical therapy
usually begins within a few days after surgery and continues for several weeks
or months.
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring strength, flexibility,
and range of motion. Patients with minor procedures may return to light
activities within a few weeks, while those with complex repairs (like rotator
cuff repair) may need 3-6 months for full recovery.
Risks and Complications
Though generally safe, shoulder arthroscopy carries some
risks, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood
clots
- Stiffness
or reduced range of motion
- Nerve
or blood vessel injury
- Re-tearing
of repaired tendons (especially if post-op instructions aren’t followed)
However, these complications are rare when the procedure is
performed by an experienced surgeon and followed by appropriate rehabilitation.
Shoulder arthroscopy is a modern, effective, and less
invasive way to manage various shoulder problems. Whether it’s a sports injury,
age-related wear and tear, or joint instability, this procedure provides relief
with minimal disruption to one’s lifestyle. If shoulder pain persists despite
conservative treatments like rest, physiotherapy, or medication, consulting an
orthopedic surgeon about the possibility of shoulder arthroscopy in Delhi NCR
could be a wise next step.
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