Types of Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery

Shoulder pain can limit everything from lifting groceries to getting a good night’s sleep. For many people, non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy or medications are enough. But when shoulder issues persist or involve structural damage, arthroscopic surgery often becomes the next step.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to view, diagnose, and treat problems inside the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. Instead of opening the entire joint, surgeons use a small camera and instruments to repair the damage. This approach reduces pain, scarring, and recovery time.

Depending on the condition being treated, there are different types of shoulder arthroscopy procedures. Each one targets a specific issue within the joint, whether it’s a torn tendon, inflamed tissue, or an unstable shoulder.

Types of Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery

1. Rotator Cuff Repair :- One of the most common arthroscopic shoulder procedures is rotator cuff repair. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and help with lifting and rotation. Injuries or tears in this area often caused by overuse, falls, or aging can lead to persistent pain and weakness.

   During arthroscopy, the surgeon locates the torn tendon, clears any damaged tissue, and uses small anchors and sutures to reattach the tendon to the bone. The goal is to restore strength and movement while reducing long-term pain.

2. Labral Repair (SLAP or Bankart Tears) :- The labrum is a ring of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the shoulder joint. Tears in the labrum are common in athletes or individuals who experience shoulder dislocations. SLAP tears involve the top part of the labrum, while Bankart tears usually occur at the front and are often linked to shoulder instability.

   Arthroscopic labral repair involves trimming frayed tissue or reattaching the torn cartilage to the shoulder socket using sutures. This procedure helps prevent further dislocations and improves joint stability.

3. Shoulder Impingement and Decompression :- Impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are pinched under the acromion, the bony part of the shoulder blade. This can cause pain during overhead motion and gradually damage the tendons.

   In an arthroscopic subacromial decompression, the surgeon smooths or removes part of the acromion to create more space for the rotator cuff tendons. This relieves pressure and allows better movement of the shoulder.

4. Biceps Tendon Surgery :- Problems with the biceps tendon such as tears or inflammation can also be treated using shoulder arthroscopy. Depending on the severity, surgeons may perform a biceps tenotomy (cutting the tendon) or a biceps tenodesis (releasing and reattaching the tendon to a different part of the bone).

   These procedures are often done when biceps damage occurs along with rotator cuff injuries and help reduce pain and improve function.

5. Shoulder Stabilization :- Recurrent shoulder dislocations, especially in younger and active individuals, may require arthroscopic stabilization. This involves repairing torn ligaments and tightening the joint capsule to hold the shoulder in place.

   By using anchors and sutures, surgeons can restore the natural alignment and prevent future instability, which is crucial for athletes or anyone involved in high-demand physical activities.

6. Debridement and Synovectomy :- In cases where there is general wear and tear or inflammation inside the shoulder, arthroscopy can be used to clean out the joint. This may involve removing loose cartilage, inflamed tissue (synovium), or small bone fragments.

   While this type of surgery doesn’t repair major damage, it can reduce pain and improve mobility in conditions like mild arthritis or bursitis.

7. Frozen Shoulder (Capsular Release) :- Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, involves stiffness and limited motion due to tightness in the joint capsule. When conservative treatment doesn’t work, arthroscopic capsular release can be performed.

   During this procedure, the surgeon cuts through tight or thickened areas of the capsule to allow for better movement and relieve pain.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthroscopy offers a modern, less invasive way to treat a wide range of shoulder problems ranging from torn tendons to joint instability and inflammation. The type of procedure chosen depends on the specific condition, severity of symptoms, and the patient’s activity level.

With smaller incisions, faster recovery, and fewer complications compared to open surgery, arthroscopic techniques have become the preferred option for many shoulder conditions. Consulting with an experienced orthopedic surgeon can help determine the right surgical approach and set you on the path to recovery with confidence.