Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgeons

Are you an athlete who participates in sports that involve throwing overhead? If so, you may be at risk of developing a shoulder injury. Shoulder arthroscopy is an important surgical technique designed to treat an extensive array of shoulder injuries in a minimally invasive way with limited soft tissue damage. The shoulder arthroscopy surgeons at Shoulder Clinic of Idaho perform shoulder arthroscopy for patients in the Boise area who have sustained a shoulder injury that requires surgery. Contact the Shoulder Clinic of Idaho team today!

Shoulder arthroscopy is one of the most common procedures performed in the treatment of shoulder injuries. The orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho have extensive experience in using this minimally invasive technique for patients in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and the surrounding communities of the Treasure Valley who want to return to their active lifestyles quickly.

When did arthroscopic surgery begin to be used for joints?

Orthopedic arthroscopic surgery dates back to the 19^th century, when a Danish physician first “looked” inside a knee joint without opening it up. The first report of a shoulder arthroscopy was reported in 1931 and was done on a cadaver. 28 years later, Masaki Watanabe developed a sophisticated instrument using electronics and optics to see inside human joints. Watanabe’s “No. 21” instrument was what North American surgeons used to develop their skills in surgical arthroscopy.

The understanding of shoulder disorders and their treatment has advanced significantly in the last few decades as a result of arthroscopy. Quicker recovery time, less chance of infection and less post-operative pain, make it an ideal choice for patients who need shoulder surgery.

The orthopedic shoulder specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho are able to offer arthroscopy under regional or general anesthesia, on an outpatient basis. Depending on the extent of damage to the shoulder joint, most arthroscopic cases take less than an hour to perform.

Are you a candidate for shoulder arthroscopy?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with the Shoulder Clinic of Idaho:

You can call our office and schedule an appointment with one our shoulder specialists.

You can schedule an office consultation with a member of our shoulder team.

What types of injuries can be treated with arthroscopic shoulder surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is used to treat a variety of injuries and conditions of the shoulder including:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries
• Shoulder Fractures
• Clavicle Fractures
• Labral and SLAP Tears
• Bone Spurs
• Biceps Tendon Injuries
• AC Joint Injuries and shoulder separations
• Shoulder Impingement
• Shoulder instability and dislocated shoulders

What is open surgery?

Whenever possible, shoulder arthroscopy, or minimally invasive shoulder surgery is the preferred method of treatment if surgery is needed. However, patients who have experienced a significant amount of shoulder damage may require an open surgery. Open surgery is performed through one larger incision instead of a few small incisions.  The following injuries may require open surgery:

• Rotator cuff tear that is large and complex
• Multiple injuries with vast shoulder damage requiring repair
• Total shoulder replacement surgery
• AC Joint Repairs that are complex, requiring ligament reconstruction
• Shoulder Fractures
• Clavicle Fractures
• Revision shoulder surgery that requires reconstruction of the arm bone (humerus) and socket (glenoid)

What is the recovery and rehabilitation after shoulder arthroscopy?

Recovery and rehabilitation may be faster for those treated with minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures. It is important to remember that bones, ligaments and tendons take time to heal, whether they are repaired with an open procedure, or arthroscopically. During the recovery and rehabilitation phases, it is important not to reinjure the healing shoulder. It is critical during the healing process to follow the instructions given by the orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho. Patients recovering from shoulder arthroscopy can expect the following:

• Daily rehabilitation protocols, directly following surgery, must be adhered to for the best possible outcome.
• Swelling, bruising, pain and discomfort are normal in the week following an arthroscopic procedure. Icepacks are very important for the first 48 hours, although many patients find pain relief and continue to use them for several days.
• Patients are encouraged to take pain medications as directed, especially in the first 2-3 days following surgery.
• If a nerve block was done prior to the arthroscopic surgery, the anesthetic may keep the arm and shoulder numb for several hours.
• Time off work is suggested for the days following surgery.

Rehabilitation and physical therapy are key to the success of shoulder arthroscopy. The orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho will make recommendations about the timing of shoulder and arm exercises, and when to return to normal activities.

For more resources on shoulder arthroscopy, or to determine if you can be treated with arthroscopic surgery, please contact The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho, serving patients in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and the surrounding communities of the Treasure Valley.

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