Shoulder Arthroscopic Surgery
You deserve what’s best.
Looking for an expert and trustworthy orthopaedic surgeon for arthroscopic shoulder surgery? Look no further than Dr. Marc Beauchamp, one of Montreal’s top orthopaedic surgeons. We understand that your shoulder’s well-being is integral to your overall quality of life. Sometimes, surgical treatment is the only way to effective pain relief.
Shoulder arthroscopy offers a beacon of hope for those seeking pain relief solutions with minimal disruption to their daily lives. This advanced procedure ensures a quicker recovery, reduced scarring, and a faster return to the activities you love.
What is Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
Shoulder arthroscopy represents a cutting-edge approach to diagnosing and treating various shoulder conditions with unparalleled precision. Unlike invasive surgeries, this technique employs regional nerve blocks with advanced technology to address issues ranging from rotator cuff tears and shoulder dislocations to bursitis and beyond.
Arthroscopic surgery allows surgeons to visualize the inside of the shoulder joint without needing large incisions. Therefore, it is a more precise and less invasive approach compared to traditional open surgeries such as shoulder replacement.
Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of arthroscopic shoulder surgery:
Arthroscope Insertion: Instead of a large incision, 2 to 3 small incisions (portals) are made around the shoulder. A tiny camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted through one of the incisions. The arthroscope transmits high-definition images of the shoulder joint to a monitor in the operating room.
Visualization of the Shoulder Joint: The surgeon carefully examines the structures inside the shoulder, including the rotator cuff, labrum, cartilage, and ligaments. The clear visualization allows for accurate diagnosis of any issues contributing to shoulder pain, instability, or limited range of motion.
Treatment Procedures: Through additional small incisions, the surgeon inserts specialized instruments to perform surgical interventions.
It will be our pleasure to book you an appointment for consultation and treatment in the coming days.
Ease your pain fast
Dr. Marc Beauchamp: the doctor for shoulder and elbow pain
Reasons Why Shoulder Arthroscopy is Recommended
Shoulder Arthroscopy is a preferred choice for diagnosing and treating various shoulder conditions due to its minimally invasive nature and effective outcomes. Usually, an arthroscopic shoulder surgery is recommended to diagnose or treat the following conditions.
Rotator Cuff Tear
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, crucial for stability and movement. Tears in the rotator cuff can result in different symptoms including injuries, overuse, or degeneration over time.
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair allows for precise visualization of the torn rotator cuff tendon. In case of severe rotator cuff injury, surgical repair can be accomplished with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Shoulder Dislocation
Dislocation occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the shoulder socket. Individuals prone to dislocations may require intervention to stabilize the joint. Arthroscopy facilitates the use of sutures and anchors to stabilize the shoulder joint. Arthroscopic procedures aim to minimize the risk of future dislocations.
Bursitis
Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. Inflamed bursa in the shoulder can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Arthroscopy allows for the removal of inflamed bursa or damaged tissues. By addressing the source of inflammation, arthroscopy helps alleviate pain and restore normal shoulder function.
Other Shoulder Conditions
Arthroscopy can be applied to various shoulder conditions, including labral tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, synovitis, and more. The procedure’s adaptability makes it a valuable tool for addressing shoulder problems. Arthroscopy enables tailored solutions for specific shoulder conditions. Smaller incisions result in reduced tissue trauma and quicker recovery compared to open surgeries.
Shoulder arthroscopy is recommended for its versatility and precision in addressing issues in shoulder joint or soft tissues. This advanced technique offers patients effective relief from severe pain, faster recovery times, and optimal outcomes.
What is the Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Process?
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a state-of-the-art procedure designed to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. Your doctor may recommend arthroscopy if your shoulder condition does not respond to nonsurgical treatment.
Before the Surgical Intervention
Before undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery, thorough preparation is essential. Dr. Beauchamp ensures a comprehensive pre-surgical process, including
Medical Assessment: A thorough medical evaluation to assess your overall health and expert medical advice about the suitability for the procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging: Advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI or X-rays, are employed to precisely diagnose the specific shoulder condition and plan the surgical approach.
During the Surgery
Small Incisions: Instead of a large incision, several small incisions, referred to as portals, are made around the shoulder. These serve as entry points for the arthroscope and surgical instruments.
Arthroscope Insertion: A small camera, the arthroscope, is inserted through one of the incisions. This device transmits high-definition images of the shoulder joint to a monitor in the operating room.
Visualization of the Shoulder Joint: The surgeon carefully examines the structures inside the shoulder, including the rotator cuff, shoulder blade, labrum, cartilage, and ligaments.
Treatment Procedures: Specialized instruments are inserted through additional small incisions to perform necessary surgical interventions.
After the Process & Recovery
After the surgery, patients are closely monitored in a specialized recovery room to ensure a smooth transition from the operating room. Additionally, a tailored physical therapy plan is designed to enhance shoulder strength, flexibility, and overall function. Physical therapy is a crucial component of the recovery process.
After patients are discharged from the clinic, regular follow-up appointments with the orthopaedic surgeon are scheduled to assess postoperative progress. In rare cases, specific medication can be prescribed.
Ease your pain fast
Dr. Marc Beauchamp: the doctor for shoulder and elbow pain
Dr. Beauchamp, Your Shoulder Arthroscopy Specialist
Meet our expert orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Beauchamp, who specializes in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to patient care, Dr. Beauchamp provides top-notch shoulder interventions.
Improve your shoulder health and relieve pain with Dr. Beauchamp’s expertise in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a functional shoulder and get the orthopaedic advice you need.
FAQ
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy Painful?
Shoulder arthroscopy is usually less painful. However, you can expect some mild pain, frozen shoulder, and occasional stiffness during shoulder movement. These conditions gradually go away after some period of time.
What is the Recovery Time After Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
After the arthroscopic shoulder surgery process, you will eventually feel a mild pain for 2 to 3 days before it disappears. If the pain is still there after this time, get in touch with your doctor.
Can I Work/Exercise After a Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Yes, we recommend our patients to perform the pendulum exercise after a shoulder arthroscopy. This exercise will help with the recovery process. However, you should not lift heavy weights nor lift your arm up, in order to avoid any harm during the recovery process.