Types of Shoulder Surgery
When therapy and other treatments have not helped shoulder pain subside,
surgery may be an option. Arthroscopy and open surgery are two types of
shoulder surgery.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive surgery that can be done on an
outpatient basis. It allows an orthopedic surgeon to see where the joint has
been damaged or injured with a small lens and lighting system (arthroscope).
The arthroscope is placed inside the person's skin through one of three small
incisions, allowing the surgeon to see if he/she can repair the injury. If it's
possible, the repair is done with surgical instruments through the two other
small incisions.
Open Surgery
Open surgery may only require a few small incisions, and allows the surgeon
to see the patient's body structure and tissue so that he/she can repair the
injury.
When to Consider Shoulder Surgery?
- Pain keeps
you from moving or reaching forward or backward
- Pain keeps
you from sleeping
- Shoulders
are extremely stiff
- You are
unable to lift your arm normally
After Surgery
After every surgery, recovery and rehabilitation are important steps for
every patient to take. At Kaweah Delta, patients will work their orthopedic
surgeon and staff members at Kaweah Delta Rehabilitation Therapy Services to
begin an exercise program that will help them regain range of motion and return
to their favorite activities.
Considering Surgery
If you are considering joint replacement, speak to your primary care
physician. For a list of orthopedic surgeons call Kaweah Delta's Information
Center at (877) 529-3241.