Overview
About Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. It allows direct visualisation and treatment of a wide range of shoulder conditions including rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, Bankart lesions (instability), SLAP tears, frozen shoulder, and AC joint problems — all with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.
Key Benefits
Minimally invasive — tiny incisions cause far less trauma than open shoulder surgery
Accurate intraoperative diagnosis alongside simultaneous treatment
Treats multiple shoulder pathologies in a single procedure if needed
Significantly less post-operative pain and faster rehabilitation
Preserved shoulder muscle strength due to minimal tissue disruption
Frequently Asked Questions
What shoulder conditions are treated arthroscopically?
Shoulder arthroscopy treats rotator cuff tears (repair), shoulder impingement (subacromial decompression), instability (Bankart repair), SLAP tears, frozen shoulder (capsular release), AC joint problems, and loose body removal.
How long does shoulder arthroscopy take?
Simple procedures like subacromial decompression take 30–45 minutes. Rotator cuff repair or Bankart repair takes 60–90 minutes. Complex reconstructions may take up to 2 hours.
Will I need a sling after shoulder arthroscopy?
Yes — most patients wear a sling for 2–6 weeks depending on the procedure. Simple procedures need a sling for 1–2 weeks; rotator cuff repair requires 4–6 weeks in a sling to protect the repaired tissue.
How long does recovery take after shoulder arthroscopy?
Return to light daily activities in 2–4 weeks. Return to driving in 4–6 weeks. Full recovery and return to sport or heavy work takes 3–6 months depending on the procedure performed.
Is shoulder arthroscopy better than open surgery?
For most shoulder conditions, arthroscopy offers equivalent or better outcomes with significantly less post-operative pain, faster recovery, smaller scars, and lower infection risk. Open surgery is reserved for complex reconstructions.