Indications for operation

This forms the basis of the other shoulder procedures but may be performed alone for diagnostic purposes.

Anaesthetic

General Anaesthetic with an interscalene block (Fully asleep with a local anaesthetic injection into the side of the neck will numb the nerves to the shoulder for post-operative pain relief)

Operation type

Arthroscopic

Incisions

3 ½ cm incisions will be made in the shoulder, one to the back, one at the side and one at the front of the shoulder.

Procedure

The gleno-humeral (shoulder) joint will be inspected first. The articular surface, ligaments, labrum, biceps tendon and the underside of the rotator cuff will be inspected. The subacromial bursa and the rotator cuff are examined through a separate incision.

Video

Wound Closure

Small butterfly paper stitches will be used to close the wounds.

Dressings

Elastoplast dressings will be placed over the top of the paper stitches and an adhesive bandage over the top of this.

Immediate aftercare

A sling will be placed on the arm and it may feel numb for the rest of the day. You can go home when you feel comfortable and will be given instructions on what to do next.

Further instructions for Shoulder arthroscopy rehabilitation