What is shoulder arthroscopy?

A variety of shoulder joint conditions can be diagnosed and treated through a minimally invasive “Key-hole” procedure known as shoulder arthroscopy. A small camera (arthroscope) is used to evaluate injured structures within and surrounding the shoulder joint, while specialized surgical instruments repair the damage. This surgical technique is preferred by both surgeons and patients as the small incisions minimize the risk of blood loss and infection during the procedure and reduce any pain and inflammation following the procedure. Dr. Frank McCormick, a shoulder arthroscopy specialist, treats patients in Chicago, Orland Park, and surrounding Illinois communities, who are in need of shoulder arthroscopy.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

What types of shoulder injuries can be repaired arthroscopically?

The following is a sampling of the various shoulder joint conditions that can benefit from this minimally invasive diagnostic procedure:

What happens during a shoulder arthroscopy?

Dr. McCormick typically performs a shoulder arthroscopy as an outpatient procedure; however, a number of patient-specific factors will be evaluated to make this final determination. The patient is first placed under anesthesia and maneuvered into a beach chair position. When the patient is stable, a number of small incisions are made surrounding the shoulder joint and a small camera (arthroscope) is introduced. Dr. McCormick will carefully review the transmitted images of the damaged shoulder joint structures to determine the best approach for repairing the injuries. Based on these intra-operative findings, specialized surgical instruments are utilized to perform any revision or reconstruction technique. After Dr. McCormick completes the necessary repairs, the arthroscope and instruments are withdrawn from the shoulder joint and the incisions are closed with steri-strips or small sutures.

What is the recovery period like after arthroscopic shoulder surgery?

While studies have found minimally invasive procedures, like the shoulder arthroscopy, often produce shorter recovery times for patients, the shoulder joint structures still take the same amount of time to heal. Therefore, a secondary shoulder joint injury should be avoided during the healing process. The recovery period is also greatly affected by the patient’s compliance with Dr. McCormick’s post-operative care instructions. The following are some key features that can be expected by patients in Chicago, Orland Park, and surrounding Illinois communities:

  • Residual Numbness. If a nerve block was administered before or after the procedure, the shoulder joint and arm can experience a residual numbing effect for several hours after the procedure.
  • Pain Management. It is normal to experience pain, swelling, bruising, and general discomfort during the first 7 to 10 days after shoulder arthroscopy. While applying ice to the affected area is important for managing these symptoms during the first 48 hours, a number of patients continue ice application throughout the recovery period. Patients are also encouraged to take the prescribed pain medications (as directed by Dr. McCormick), particularly during the first 48 to 72 hours following shoulder arthroscopy.
  • Physical Therapy. Dr. McCormick will tailor a physical rehabilitation program to address the patient’s specific needs. This program is perhaps the most important aspect of the recovery process as these exercises will restore the full functionality of the shoulder joint. The timing of physical therapy and when to anticipate a return to normal daily activities is based on Dr. McCormick’s intra-operative findings and the specific repair techniques performed.

Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgeon

Shoulder arthroscopy, also called “Key Hole” surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that can be used to diagnose and treat different conditions of the shoulder. Complex shoulder surgeon, Doctor Frank McCormick, provides diagnosis and personalized treatment plans for patients in Chicago, Orland Park, and surrounding Illinois communities who are experiencing shoulder pain. Contact Dr. McCormick’s team today!