Shoulder Arthroscopic Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation
What is so special about Shoulder Keyhole or Arthroscopic Surgery?
Surgery of the shoulder can now be done with just a few small incisions. The procedure uses an arthroscope through a small incision to view the inside of the joint instead of one large incision, as was used in conventional open surgery. A camera at the end of the arthroscope with a light source is connected allows the surgeon view a live picture of the inside of the shoulder joint.
Shoulder arthroscopy is performed through “portals” or small incisions, only about 1/2 inch long. Small plastic tubes or cannulas are inserted into these to place instruments in the joint. These instruments remove inflamed tissue, attach sutures to bone and repair torn tendons. Patients who have keyhole surgery can usually go home the same day.
When is Shoulder Arthroscopy recommended?
Your doctor may recommend shoulder arthroscopy if your painful condition does not respond to conservative treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, and medications or injections.
Common arthroscopic procedures include:
· Rotator cuff repair
· Bone spur removal
· Removal or repair of the labrum
· Repair of ligaments
· Removal of inflamed tissue or loose cartilage
· Repair for recurrent shoulder dislocation
How soon can I recovery from Shoulder Keyhole Surgery?
Immediately after Surgery
After surgery, you will be in the recovery room for 1–2 hours before being discharged. Pain medication may be given, if needed.
At Home
Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy is faster than recovery from open surgery. However, it will still take a few weeks for your shoulder to completely recover.
Some pain or discomfort may be experienced for a week after surgery. Ice packs can be used to relieve pain and swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medicine, if needed. Some patients are more comfortable in a reclining chair or propped up than lying flat in bed during the first days after surgery.
Your arm will be put in a sling to protect your shoulder, as long as your surgeon recommends.
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation will play an important part in your recovery after shoulder keyhole or arthroscopic surgery. An exercise routine designed by your physiotherapist should be carefully followed, without overdoing it. It will help you regain shoulder strength and motion.
In some cases, the shoulder surgeon may recommend your exercises to be monitored and supervised by a physiotherapist. You need to make a strong effort at rehabilitation so that you can heal faster and get back to your normal life as soon as possible.
To learn more about speedy recovery from shoulder surgery, call Droitwich Knee Clinic at 08008250250. Orthopaedic specialists and physiotherapists at the Droitwich Knee Clinic have successfully treated innumerable patients over the years and continue to do so.
