SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY

The shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint) is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade. Although structurally robust, the joint remains highly flexible, rendering its soft tissues vulnerable to injury. Such injuries can lead to instability, pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility.

What is shoulder arthroscopy?

The widely performed, minimally invasive surgery referred to as shoulder arthroscopy is used to diagnose and resolve a broad range of shoulder conditions. As a result, using a lighted, bendable scope (arthroscope) and creating several small incisions over the shoulder joint, Dr van Niekerk can ensure full and pain-free shoulder mobility.

The camera attached to the tip of the scope helps transfer images of the inside of the shoulder to a monitor in Dr van Niekerk’s theatre. This way, he can locate the injury and determine the cause of shoulder pain or instability of the joint.

Indications for shoulder arthroscopy

Generally, shoulder arthroscopy is a surgical treatment option for conditions such as:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Shoulder impingement syndrome
• Labral tears and shoulder instability
• Biceps tendon injuries
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Bone spurs
• Shoulder osteoarthritis and cartilage damage
• Recurrent shoulder dislocations
• Inflammation or damage within the shoulder joint

How does Dr van Niekerk perform shoulder arthroscopy?

Dr van Niekerk begins by shaving the skin where the incision will be made and applying an antiseptic to the skin’s surface. In addition, he may decide to inject liquid into the joint with the intention of inflating the area. Afterwards, Dr van Niekerk creates a tiny, button-sized hole over the joint where he will prepare to guide the arthroscope through. Next, several smaller portals are created over the shoulder to insert tiny surgical tools. Once Dr van Niekerk completes the surgery, he will seal the incisions using stitches or tiny bandages.

What is recovery like?

Shoulder arthroscopy is considered a same-day procedure, in which case you can return home on the day of the scheduled procedure. However, you must remain in the hospital for one to two hours to allow medical staff to monitor your condition. Dr van Niekerk will prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort after the procedure.

Unfortunately, you will not be able to drive home. In that case, it would be best if you arranged for a close friend, colleague or relative to drive you home after the procedure.

What are the significant benefits of shoulder arthroscopy?

• Reduced pain
• Minimal postoperative complications
• Reduced hospital stay
• Quicker recovery

What are the risks and complications?

As with any surgical procedure, shoulder arthroscopy carries certain risks. Potential complications may include infection, bleeding, injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels, and slower-than-expected healing. Some patients may also experience shoulder stiffness following surgery. Adhering to a structured rehabilitation and physiotherapy programme is important to help restore movement and reduce the risk of post-operative stiffness.