ARTHROSCOPIC SHOULDER SURGERY

Why would arthroscopic surgery be needed?

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles in your upper arm that assists with the mobility of your shoulder. Particularly, this collection of tissues ensures that you can rotate your arm effectively. The tendons and muscles of the rotator cuff are the most commonly injured parts of the shoulder. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is needed to repair rotator cuff tears, and that can restrict the mobility of your arm and cause discomfort. This procedure is minimally invasive and involves small surgical incisions. In some cases, however, Dr Stander may opt to perform open shoulder surgery for better access to the damaged tendons in the rotator cuff instead.

Rotator cuff injuries are generally characterised by:

  • Dull pain in the shoulder and arm
  • Weakness in the arm
  • Difficulty rotating the arm upward

Rotator cuff injuries can be caused by trauma to the shoulder experienced during strenuous physical exercise. The tendons can also degenerate over time due to wear and tear associated with regular lifting in industrial work environments. If left untreated, rotator cuff injuries can reduce the mobility and strength of the shoulder.

How is it done?

Dr Stander will perform arthroscopic shoulder surgery to repair tears in the tendons of the rotator cuff without making large, invasive surgical incisions. This form of shoulder surgery is an option when the rotator cuff tear is minor or relatively simple to repair through small, minimally invasive incisions.

During the procedure, Dr Stander will insert an arthroscope featuring a tiny camera into one of the small incisions. He will use the arthroscope to examine the tissues of the rotator cuff and pinpoint the tendons that need repair. Using other small surgical tools, Dr Stander will then work to stitch the damaged tendons and reattach them to the bones. This is usually a same-day procedure.

What can be expected after surgery?

You will be allowed to return home several hours after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Dr Stander will prescribe pain relievers and advise you on how to take care of your wounds as you heal. You may need to wear a sling or brace to prevent movement in your arm during this process. After several weeks of restricted movement, you will need to begin physical therapy to help regain proper mobility in your arm. Your recovery time could range from weeks to months, depending on the extent of your shoulder repairs.

As we journey together towards your optimal health and mobility, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for entrusting me with your orthopedic care. It is both an honor and a privilege to serve you.

At our orthopedic center, we are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking treatment for knee, hip, or hand issues, rest assured that you are in skilled and compassionate hands.

Your well-being is our top priority, and we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way—from diagnosis to recovery and beyond. Together, let’s embark on this path towards renewed vitality and an active lifestyle.

Thank you for choosing Dr. H. Stander’s Orthopedic Center. Your trust inspires us to strive for excellence every day.

Telephone +27 41 363 1380
Address: Suite 320 Netcare Greenacres Hospital,
Cnr Cape & Rochelle Road,
Greenacres, 6045
Location Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Terwyl ons saam reis na u optimale gesondheid en beweeglikheid, wil ek my opregte dank uitspreek vir die vertroue wat u in my stel vir u ortopediese sorg. Dit is ‘n eer en ‘n voorreg om u te dien.

By ons ortopediese sentrum is ons toegewyd om u die hoogste standaard van sorg te bied, op maat gemaak vir u unieke behoeftes. Of u nou behandeling soek vir knie-, heup- of handprobleme, wees verseker dat u in bekwame en medelydende hande is.

U welsyn is ons hoogste prioriteit, en ons is toegewyd om u elke stap van die pad te ondersteun – vanaf diagnose tot herstel en daarna. Saam, laat ons hierdie pad betree na hernieude lewenskrag en ‘n aktiewe lewenstyl.

Dankie dat u Dr. H. Stander se Ortopediese Sentrum gekies het. U vertroue inspireer ons om daagliks na uitnemendheid te streef.