Shoulder Arthroscopic Surgery

What is shoulder arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a less intrusive surgical procedure to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the mobility and function of the shoulder. Shoulder arthroscopic surgery involves using a tube-like instrument with a light and camera connected to one end to assess, reconstruct or repair tissues within or near the shoulder joint.

How does Dr du Toit perform the procedure?

During shoulder arthroscopic surgery, Dr du Toit inserts a lighted scope with a camera attached to one end through a small incision made over the shoulder. The camera connected to the scope helps visualise the inside of the joint in great detail, capturing images of the soft tissues such as the ligaments, tendons, bones and cartilage. Next, Dr du Toit repairs the affected tissues by creating several tiny incisions over the shoulder where he inserts small surgical equipment through these openings. Through these incisions, he can remove damaged tissue or fix a tear in the cartilage, tendon or muscle.

Shoulder arthroscopy can be conducted for the following reasons:

• Repair of the rotator cuff tendon involves joining the ends of the tendon so that it attaches to the bone by means of sutures. Plastic, metal or suture rivets, or suture anchors, connect the tendon to the bone.
• Impingement syndrome surgery involves removing affected tissue and cutting the coracoacromial ligament. Afterwards, Dr du Toit shaves the acromion to remove the bone spur causing shoulder pain.
• Surgery for shoulder instability entails fixing a torn labrum, which is cartilage that covers the end of the shoulder joint.

What can I expect in terms of my recovery?

The estimated recovery time after shoulder arthroscopy can range between one to six months, depending on the condition being treated. While recovering at home, Dr du Toit will temporarily prescribe pain medication to alleviate discomfort. Usually, physical therapy is initiated to help regain strength and motion in the shoulder.

The prognosis after shoulder arthroscopy is favourable since the long-term results include reduced pain and stiffness in the shoulder.