Shoulder arthroscopy is a cutting-edge surgical technique that offers precise diagnosis and treatment for various shoulder issues. Unlike traditional open surgery, arthroscopy involves small incisions and specialized tools, resulting in less pain, quicker recovery, and improved outcomes.
Shoulder arthroscopy is most commonly performed using regional nerve blocks, which numb your shoulder and arm. This numbing medicine is injected in the base of your neck or high on your shoulder. This is where the nerves that control feeling in your shoulder and arm are located. In addition to its use as an anesthetic during surgery, a nerve block will help control pain for a few hours after the surgery is completed. Many surgeons combine nerve blocks with sedation or a light general anesthetic because patients can become uncomfortable staying in one position for the length of time needed to complete the surgery.
Common arthroscopic procedures include:
- Rotator cuff repair
- Removal or repair of the labrum
- Repair of ligaments
- Removal of inflamed tissue or loose cartilage
- Repair for recurrent shoulder dislocation
