Why We Might Recommend Shoulder Arthroscopy for Ligament Repair

Shoulder injuries are quite common and can happen to anyone at any time. One of the injuries that affects the shoulder is a ligament tear, which can weaken the shoulder joint and cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement. 

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that uses a small camera called an arthroscope to look inside your shoulder to diagnose, treat, and/or repair the damaged tissues inside the joint. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Steven E. Nolan, MD, is a shoulder arthroscopy specialist who can advise you about the procedure and help you decide if it might be right for you.

Let’s explore the reasons.

Diagnoses the exact source of the problem

Your shoulder is structurally and functionally complex, with more than one potential area for injury. Arthroscopic is a minimally invasive way to diagnose the source of the problem inside your shoulder joint. Once Dr. Nolan determines the root cause of the issue, he can proceed with the repair process.

Provides effective treatment for ligament tears

Shoulder arthroscopy is a standard treatment for ligament tears, and Dr. Nolan inserts small instruments through tiny incisions around the shoulder to repair the ligament. 

Since he performs the entire procedure through small incisions using a camera, damage to the surrounding tissues is minimal, which reduces the healing time and allows you to return to your daily activities quickly.

Offers a quick recovery

Because shoulder arthroscopy is minimally invasive, you can count on a quick recovery. Compared to open surgery, there’s comparatively less damage to the tissues and muscles. This way, there is less pain, swelling, and scarring, which means you can recover faster and with less discomfort.

Has fewer potential risks compared to open surgery

Though any type of surgery has risks of complications, shoulder arthroscopy is much safer than traditional open surgery. With the small incisions and the camera that guides the procedure, there is less chance of developing an infection, nerve damage, or other problems.

Makes postoperative care less challenging

When you have arthroscopy, your postoperative care is relatively stress-free. We may recommend certain exercises to aid in the rehabilitation process to speed up healing while ensuring the best outcome.

If you’re experiencing pain or limited mobility in your shoulder, consult with Dr. Nolan to determine the best course of action. He can help you understand how arthroscopy works and determine if it’s the right choice for you to ensure a successful outcome. 

Reach out to Steven E. Nolan, MD, for an expert evaluation and the care you deserve. Call or click online today.