Shoulder Arthroscopy

Overview

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows Dr Markham to visualise, diagnose and treat shoulder conditions through small incisions using a specialised camera and instruments.

Arthroscopy is used to repair many common shoulder problems including rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder impingement and instability. Because it is less invasive than open surgery, arthroscopy typically results in faster recovery, less tissue trauma and lower risk of complications.

When Is It Needed?

Shoulder arthroscopy may be recommended for:

• Rotator cuff tears — repair of partial or full thickness tears using suture anchors
• Shoulder impingement — removal of bone spurs (subacromial decompression) to reduce pressure on the rotator cuff
• Labral tears — repair of damaged cartilage in the shoulder socket
• Shoulder instability — repair of loose structures that support the joint
• Biceps tendon problems — treatment of tendonitis or partial tears
• AC joint arthritis — removal of bone spurs at the top of the shoulder
• Loose bodies — removal of fragments floating in the joint
• SLAP lesions — repair of superior labrum injuries
• Acute sports injuries — including swimmer’s shoulder

Your surgeon will recommend arthroscopy based on your diagnosis, imaging findings and symptoms.

The Procedure

Shoulder arthroscopy is performed under general anaesthesia with local anaesthetic blockade to provide pain control during and immediately after the procedure. Small incisions are made to introduce the arthroscope (camera) and surgical instruments.

Using the camera to visualise the inside of your shoulder, Dr Markham can diagnose the exact problem and perform repairs using techniques such as suture anchors, debridement (cleaning) or bone spur removal.

The procedure is typically performed as day surgery, with no requirement for overnight hospital admission in most cases.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy is generally faster than from open surgery, but careful adherence to post-operative instructions is important.

• Day of surgery: You will spend approximately 1 hour in the recovery room after the procedure. Pain management is provided, and you will be given a sling for support.
• First 2 weeks: Swelling and pain are normal and are managed with prescribed medication. Gentle range-of-motion exercises are instructed to prevent stiffness and promote healing. Showering is permitted within 1–2 days with the waterproof dressing intact.
• 2–6 weeks: Most patients can resume normal activities, though a sling is typically worn as prescribed to protect the repair.
• 6+ weeks: Return to sport and heavy activities depends on the procedure performed and your progress. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide your progression.

Rehabilitation with prescribed gentle exercises is essential to restore range of motion and speed recovery. Following Dr Markham’s post-operative instructions carefully will support optimal healing.

Risks & Complications

Arthroscopic surgery carries lower risk of complications compared to open surgery, but as with all procedures, risks exist:

Common side effects:

• Pain and discomfort, usually minimal on the day of surgery but worsening after the local anaesthetic wears off (24 hours), then improving over the next few days
• Swelling and bruising
• Stiffness if early gentle exercises are not performed

Less common complications:

• Infection
• Nerve or blood vessel injury, causing temporary or rarely permanent changes in sensation or movement
• Reaction to anaesthesia
• Temporary fluid accumulation in the joint

Urgent warning signs — contact Dr Markham immediately if you develop:

• Fever
• Increasing redness, oozing or drainage from the surgical sites
• Significant worsening of pain after 5 days
• Changes in skin colour or sensation
• Shortness of breath (may indicate blood clot — seek emergency care)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is arthroscopy a major surgery? Arthroscopy is classified as minimally invasive surgery. While it is a formal surgical procedure requiring general anaesthesia, the smaller incisions and less tissue trauma mean faster recovery compared to open surgery.

When can I drive after arthroscopy? You should not drive until you are completely off strong pain medication and out of the sling, typically 2–6 weeks depending on the procedure. Your surgeon will advise when it is safe to resume driving.

How long do I need to wear the sling? Sling duration depends on the procedure performed. For uncomplicated repairs, sling use typically ranges from 2–6 weeks. Dr Markham will provide specific guidance for your case.

When can I return to sport? Return to sport depends on the repair performed and your progress. Simple procedures may allow return within 2–3 months with rehabilitation, while more complex repairs may require 4–6 months or longer.

Will I have a lot of pain after arthroscopy? Most patients experience minimal pain on the day of surgery due to the local anaesthetic blockade. Some soreness and discomfort develop as the blockade wears off over 24 hours but are usually well-managed with prescribed pain medication and improve within a few days.

Do I need physiotherapy after arthroscopy? Gentle range-of-motion exercises are essential immediately after surgery, and progressive physiotherapy is important for optimal recovery. Your surgeon will prescribe a specific rehabilitation program.