Arthroscopy of the shoulder joint

The shoulder joint has a complex structure and provides a wide amplitude of arm movements. Any damage to tendons, ligaments or cartilage limits this mobility and causes pain. Arthroscopy of the shoulder is a minimally invasive method of diagnosis and treatment that allows you to examine internal structures through small punctures. Under the control of the camera, the doctor sees the image in magnification, so the intervention is as accurate and safe as possible for the patient.

List of advantages of arthroscopy of the shoulder joint

The procedure provides effective treatment without large incisions and long recovery. Among the main advantages are:

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• minimal tissue injury, so that the pain syndrome after surgery is much less;
• a short period of hospital stay — usually the patient returns home the next day after surgery.
• significantly faster rehabilitation than with open operations
• low risk of complications and rapid wound healing;
• accurate diagnosis of minor injuries — for example, articular lip or rotator cuff;
• high efficiency in cases where drug treatment does not help.

Arthroscopy of the shoulder joint is used not only for diagnosis, but also for the restoration of the anatomical structure of the shoulder. That is why it has already become the gold standard in the surgical treatment of most diseases and injuries of the shoulder joint, replacing open operations in the field of orthopedics and traumatology. However, for fractures, significant bone defects or endoprosthetics, classical techniques are still used.

To whom and when shoulder arthroscopy is prescribed

The method is prescribed by a doctor after a complete examination. The main indications are:

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• rupture of the tendons of the rotator cuff;
• damage to the tendon of the long head of the biceps;
• adhesive capsulite, which limits the mobility of the hand;
• instability of the shoulder joint after injuries or dislocations;
• damage to the articular lip (SLAP-damage);
• the presence of chronic pain that does not go away after conservative treatment.

The decision to have surgery depends on the general condition of the patient, the level of pain and the extent of the lesion. If conventional physiotherapy methods do not produce results, the orthopedic traumatologist recommends performing arthroscopy to eliminate the source of pain and restore mobility.

To whom arthroscopy of the shoulder joint is contraindicated

The procedure has standard limitations. It is not carried out in conditions of active infection, inflammation or severe somatic diseases. Also, the operation is postponed if the patient has blood clotting disorders or allergic reactions to anesthesia. Contraindication may be the inability to comply with the rehabilitation regimen after the intervention.

The process of performing shoulder arthroscopy

The operation is performed in a sterile operating unit under general anesthesia and regional anesthesia. Through small punctures in the skin, the doctor inserts an arthroscope - a thin tube with a camera and lighting. Through additional channels, tools are introduced that perform the restoration of damaged structures.

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In the process, the surgeon sees an enlarged image of the inside of the shoulder on the monitor. This allows you to act as accurately as possible on the places of rupture of the tendons, stabilize the joint or remove fragments that interfere with movement. Arthroscopic surgery ensures minimal blood loss. The duration of the intervention is usually from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the severity of the damage.

What preparation is due before such an operation

Before arthroscopy, the doctor prescribes a standard set of examinations. It includes blood tests, electrocardiogram, consultations of related specialists. Preparation for the operation includes:

• clarification of all concomitant diseases of the patient and possible allergies;
• temporary refusal of drugs that affect blood clotting;
• control of nutrition and refusal of food 6-8 hours before the intervention;
• briefing on the period after surgery.

Such steps allow you to minimize the risks during the procedure. The final decision on the day of surgery is made by the doctor after assessing the general condition of the patient.

Rehabilitation and recovery after arthroscopy on the shoulder joint

After the intervention, the hand is fixed in a special bandage. The first few days are possible slight swelling and discomfort, which are relieved by cold compresses. Recovery after arthroscopy occurs in stages:

• in the first days, passive movements are performed to avoid stiffness;
• after 1 week, active rehabilitation begins after surgery under the supervision of a physiotherapist;
• complete mobility is restored within 2—6 months, depending on the complexity of the intervention.

The duration of the process depends on the type of damage, the discipline of the patient and the correct execution of the exercises. In general, it ranges from 3 to 12 months.

Why should I choose Mashtaler Clinic for treatment?

1. Experience and qualifications. Operations are performed by orthopedic traumatologists with many years of experience in this field. All specialists have international practice and regularly undergo advanced training.
2. Accuracy and safety of interventions. Arthroscopy of the shoulder joint is performed in operating rooms with modern video equipment, which provides a clear image of all tissues and structures.
3. Minimally Invasive Techniques. Modern technologies are used that reduce pain, shorten the recovery period after arthroscopy and reduce the risk of complications.
4. Complete diagnosis and treatment. The patient undergoes an examination before surgery, including diagnosis of the rotator cuff, articular lip, long biceps head, or other structures.
5. Control and rehabilitation after surgery. Recovery is carried out in stages - from passive movements to special exercises under the supervision of a physiotherapist and doctor.

Specialists of Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Medical Center adhere to international standards of surgery. They pay maximum attention to the accuracy of diagnosis, the effectiveness of the methods and the safety of the patient at each stage of treatment.

Price for arthroscopy of the shoulder joint in Lviv

The cost depends on the amount of intervention, the complexity of the damage and the need for further rehabilitation after surgery. The exact price of arthroscopy of the shoulder joint is announced after consulting an orthopedic traumatologist and determining the optimal method of treatment.

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