Shoulder Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive keyhole procedure used to diagnose and treat shoulder joint problems using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.
Who Needs It
Recommended for patients with persistent shoulder pain, stiffness or instability caused by rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement or recurrent dislocation that has not improved with rest, medication or physiotherapy.
How It's Performed
A small camera called an arthroscope is inserted through a tiny incision, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the shoulder joint on a screen. Additional small incisions allow specialised instruments to repair damaged tissue, remove loose fragments or address impingement, all without a large open incision.
Preparing for Surgery
Before surgery, patients typically undergo a physical examination and imaging such as an MRI or ultrasound to assess the extent of joint damage and plan the surgical approach. Patients are counselled on what to expect during admission, surgery and the initial recovery period.
Conditions Treated
Shoulder arthroscopy is commonly used to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, labral tears, frozen shoulder and recurrent shoulder dislocation, often combined with a targeted repair procedure such as rotator cuff repair or Bankart's repair.
Benefits
Because it avoids a large incision, arthroscopy typically results in less pain, minimal scarring, a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to daily activities compared with open shoulder surgery.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgical procedure, shoulder arthroscopy carries some risk, including infection, stiffness, nerve or blood vessel irritation, or incomplete relief of symptoms in complex cases. Your surgical team will discuss your individual risk factors beforehand and take steps to minimise these risks.
Life After Surgery
Most patients regain significant shoulder function and return to normal activities, including sport, once rehabilitation is complete. Continued shoulder-strengthening exercises help maintain long-term joint health.
Price Range
Price on Consultation
Recovery Timeline
Wounds are kept dry. Patients wear a sling to protect the shoulder and use ice packs to manage mild swelling.
Sling usage is reduced. A physiotherapist introduces gentle passive exercises to prevent stiffness.
Active physical therapy focuses on rebuilding muscle strength and restoring full range of motion.