Arthroscopy of the shoulder joint

Arthroscopy of the shoulder joint is performed under general or local anesthesia. During the operation, an arthroscope is inserted through small incisions. A thin tube with a micro-camera is inserted. This allows the doctor to see the inner surface of the joint and perform the necessary manipulations. The method is minimally invasive, which reduces the recovery time.

There are three main techniques in arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder joint:

1. Rotator cuff reconstruction

Acute ruptures of the rotator cuff of the shoulder are typical for throwing and contact sports such as volleyball, basketball, shot throwing, etc.

Age-related degenerative changes of the rotator cuff are also possible in older patients, as the tissues become less elastic and durable over time.

With awkward movement, a degeneratively altered tendon may rupture, which leads to the patient losing the ability to use the upper limb. He cannot serve himself and perform basic movements (raise and pull his arm, dress, comb his hair, etc.), not to mention active activity.

In this case, patients undergo arthroscopic reconstruction of the rotator cuff.

2. Bankart operation

This intervention is indicated for chronic instability of the shoulder joint (more than 1 dislocation in the anamnesis). In this case, patients are diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior or posterior articular lip. During arthroscopy, it is fixed with special anchors (retainers) and sewn to the articular surface of the scapula (glenoid).

The duration of the operation is 1.5-3 hours.

3. Latarge's open operation

It is used in the most difficult cases. As a rule, these are situations when, with chronic instability of the shoulder joint, there is additionally a defect in the articular surface of the scapula (glenoid), the so-called "bone Bankart".

Initially, an arthroscopic revision of the shoulder joint is performed and the deficiency of the articular surface of the scapula is assessed based on the combination of data previously obtained from CT and MRI studies. The open stage is performed from a small incision in the projection of the shoulder joint. A bone block is formed from the coracoid process of the scapula and fixed with 2 screws to the articular surface of the scapula. Thus, the deficiency of the articular surface is eliminated, eliminating the cause of instability of the shoulder joint. Latarge's surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

Depending on the complexity, the duration of the intervention can vary from 1.5 to 3-4 hours.

In the Russian Federation, Alexander Alexandrovich Vetoshkin, Head of the EMC Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics, Associate Professor, Candidate of Medical Sciences, is the first Russian specialist who performed arthroscopic Latarge surgery on the shoulder joint. This method is a minimally invasive alternative to open intervention. It reduces the risks of intraoperative complications and gives a better cosmetic effect, as the procedure is performed through punctures.

Recovery and rehabilitation

After arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder joint, it is important to undergo a rehabilitation course. The recovery time depends on the nature of the surgery, but in most cases, patients begin to actively move their shoulder within a few days after the intervention. A set of rehabilitation exercises will help restore joint functionality and prevent repeated injuries.

Problems with the shoulder joint are quite common. We have selected answers to popular and interesting inquiries from our patients.

Where can I have an arthroscopy of the shoulder joint?

Where can I get arthroscopy of the shoulder joint, which gives a guaranteed positive result?

Today, more and more patients are choosing the EMC Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics, and there are good reasons for this. Our specialists will provide full information on the technique of shoulder arthroscopy, taking into account the patient's current state of health. All the necessary diagnostics can be completed in a few hours, thanks to the availability of the latest generation of innovative equipment in the Center. The EMC Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics fully complies with all the highest European standards of medical care.

Don't put off taking care of your health until later, sign up for a consultation today and regain the fullness of an active life!