Shoulder Arthroscopy

At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, we offer shoulder arthroscopy as a minimally invasive option to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder conditions. Using small incisions and a tiny camera called an arthroscope, our orthopaedic surgeons can evaluate and repair damage to the shoulder joint with less pain, fewer complications, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows physicians to view and treat problems inside the shoulder joint without making large incisions. It’s commonly used to diagnose shoulder pain and to treat soft tissue damage affecting tendons, ligaments, cartilage, or the joint lining.

Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy

Rotator Cuff Tears

Repairing torn tendons that help stabilize and move the shoulder.

Labral Tears

Reattaching or smoothing out the torn cartilage that supports shoulder stability.

Shoulder Impingement

Removing inflamed tissue or bone spurs that restrict movement and cause pain.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Releasing tight joint capsule tissue to restore range of motion.

Shoulder Instability

Tighten ligaments or repair labral tears to prevent dislocation or looseness.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Shoulder arthroscopy is typically performed under general anesthesia or regional nerve block. Most procedures take 1 to 2 hours and are done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day.

During the procedure:

• Small incisions (about the size of a pencil tip) are made

• An arthroscope is inserted to visualize the joint

• Specialized instruments are used to repair, remove, or reshape tissue

• Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape

Recovery After Shoulder Arthroscopy

Recovery varies based on the type of repair performed. In general:

• You’ll wear a sling for several days to a few weeks

• Pain and swelling are managed with medication and ice

• Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery to restore motion and strength

• Most patients return to normal activities within 2 to 4 months, with full recovery in 6 months or less

Our team provides a tailored rehabilitation plan and closely monitors your progress throughout recovery.

Is Shoulder Arthroscopy Right for You?

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Ongoing shoulder pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatment

• Limited motion, weakness, or instability

• Structural damage confirmed by imaging

• A need for a precise diagnosis of unexplained shoulder pain