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:

  1. The patient is positioned, often in a beach chair or lateral decubitus position.
  2. The surgeon makes small incisions (about the size of a buttonhole).
  3. The arthroscope is inserted, and sterile fluid is used to expand the joint and provide a clear view.
  4. After diagnosing the issue, the surgeon inserts small instruments through additional incisions to perform the repair.
  5. 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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