Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure targeting shoulder joint issues such as pain, impingement, rotator cuff tears, and instability. Small incisions are made to insert surgical instruments and an arthroscope to visualize and diagnose joint structures. Diagnostic tests include CT scans, MRIs, ultrasonics, physical reviews, and EMGs (electromyograms). These tests aid in identifying ligament tears and other shoulder injuries, facilitating effective treatment planning.

Arthroscopy is employed for various reasons, including evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of joint issues:

• Diagnosis: Arthroscopy helps assess and diagnose joint problems.
• Surgical Repair: It is used for repairing damaged cartilage, trimming soft tissues, and reconstructing ligaments.
• Fluid Sampling: Arthroscopy allows for the collection of joint fluid samples.
• Scar Tissue Removal: Inflamed scar tissue within the joint lining can be removed.
• Calcium Deposit Removal: Arthroscopy aids in the removal of calcium deposits from bone tissue.
• Addressing Joint Weakness: It is utilized when severe joint weakness or immobility is present.
• Failed Medical Treatment: Arthroscopy may be considered after failed treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and physiotherapy.
• Pain Management: It helps alleviate severe joint pain that impedes daily activities such as bathing, washing, toileting, and dressing.

Arthroscopy is a highly accurate diagnostic and treatment procedure for joint injuries and diseases, surpassing the reliability of physical examinations, X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. It serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Common conditions diagnosed through arthroscopy include inflammation such as synovitis, acute or chronic injuries like rotator cuff tendon tears, impingement syndrome, recurrent dislocations (shoulder), meniscus tears, anterior cruciate ligament tears with instability, chondromalacia (knee), and carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist).

Arthroscopic surgery for shoulder problems offers minimally invasive treatment options for various conditions. Orthopedic consultation is necessary to determine the appropriate course of action after considering non-surgical treatments. Common shoulder issues addressed through arthroscopic surgery include bone spurs, stiffness, tissue inflammation, instability, impingement, rotator cuff tears, and arthritis. Treatment options may include:

Shoulder Replacement:

• Total Shoulder Replacement: Involves replacing both sides of the joint to alleviate pain and improve motion.
• Partial Shoulder Replacement: Used when the glenoid socket remains intact, replacing only the humeral head.
• Rotator Cuff Repair: Surgery aimed at repairing damaged tissues surrounding the shoulder joint, common for pain relief and restoration of function.

Shoulder Arthroscopy:

• A minimally invasive procedure allowing visualization and treatment of shoulder joint issues through small incisions.
• Enables better outcomes, quicker recovery, and reduced scarring compared to traditional surgery methods.

Pre-surgery Preparation:

• Medical tests are conducted, and blood-thinning medications are avoided.
• Patient's medical history and current medication regimen are reviewed.
• Physical examination to identify the affected area.
• Notification of any underlying health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.

During Surgery:

• General anesthesia is administered.
• Outpatient procedure in most cases.
• Arthroscopes used for diagnosis and treatment.
• Surgical instruments used to remove, replace, or repair affected areas.
• Sterile fluids used to clear the surgical site.
• Wound closure with stitches or bandage.

Post-surgery Recovery:

• Individualized recovery plan created by the surgeon.
• Pain and discomfort for about a week, managed with pain-relieving drugs.
• Swelling addressed with ice packs.
• Regular follow-ups for monitoring and adjustments.
• Observation in the hospital for 2-3 hours post-surgery.
• Use of sling or immobilizer as needed.
• Potential involvement of physical therapists.

Cost of Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery in India:

• Affordable and effective treatment, costing approximately USD 1063 to 3204 (INR 8,43,00 to 2,54,091).
• Factors affecting cost include therapy, surgeon's fee, hospital location, diagnostic tests, type of repair needed, and type of surgery required.