Upper Limb Arthroscopic Surgeries

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopy is a modern surgical technique that allows for minimally invasive examination and treatment of joints. During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a thin, camera-equipped instrument, called an arthroscope, into the affected joint. The camera transmits a live image to a monitor, through which the surgeon can thoroughly examine the problematic area and perform targeted interventions.

One of the greatest advantages of arthroscopic surgeries is that they involve smaller incisions, which reduces post-operative pain, shortens recovery time, and lowers the risk of complications compared to traditional open surgeries. During the procedure, damaged cartilage surfaces, joint ligaments, or tendons can be removed or repaired, and inflammatory and degenerative changes can also be treated.

In most cases, personalized rehabilitation is required after surgery to help regain joint mobility and strength. Physiotherapy, performed under the guidance of a doctor and physiotherapist, is crucial for full recovery and a swift return to daily activities.

When might upper limb arthroscopic surgery be necessary?

Arthroscopy may be necessary in the following cases:

• Persistent shoulder, elbow, or wrist pain: If the pain does not subside with rest and hinders daily activities.
• Restricted range of motion: If the affected joint is difficult or limited to move, for example, difficulty raising the arm in the case of shoulder arthroscopy.
• Sports injuries: Common indications include the treatment of cartilage injuries, tendon ruptures, and ligament injuries, especially among active athletes.
• Rotator cuff rupture: Rotator cuff surgery becomes necessary if conservative treatments do not bring improvement and movement restriction or pain becomes persistent.
• Cartilage degeneration: Damaged cartilage fragments can be removed and degenerative changes treated during elbow and wrist arthroscopy.
• Chronic tendon inflammation: If joint inflammation persists long-term and conservative therapy is ineffective, upper limb arthroscopic surgery offers an opportunity to remove inflammatory tissues.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that effectively treats shoulder joint problems, reduces pain, and helps regain range of motion. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is performed through smaller incisions, resulting in faster healing and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgeries. Shoulder arthroscopy is a modern procedure in shoulder surgery that can provide solutions for many musculoskeletal problems.

When is shoulder arthroscopy needed?

Injuries and changes in the shoulder joint often cause pain, restricted movement, and instability. Shoulder arthroscopy is particularly recommended in the following cases:

• Rotator cuff rupture surgery: If the rotator cuff, which stabilizes the shoulder muscles, is injured, it can cause restricted movement and persistent pain. The surgical intervention aims to repair the tendons and improve shoulder function.
• Impingement syndrome (shoulder impingement): This condition occurs when joint structures rub against each other during shoulder movement, causing pain and inflammation. The arthroscopic procedure helps to free up the narrow space.
• Shoulder dislocation or instability: In cases of recurrent shoulder dislocations or chronic instability, shoulder arthroscopy allows the surgeon to repair damaged structures to prevent further joint damage.
• Frozen shoulder syndrome (adhesive capsulitis): This painful condition involves a gradual restriction of shoulder joint movement, caused by thickening and adhesion of the joint capsule. If conservative treatments (physiotherapy, injections) do not bring improvement, arthroscopic shoulder intervention can help loosen adhered tissues and restore range of motion.

How is arthroscopic shoulder surgery performed?

During the arthroscopic shoulder surgery procedure, the surgeon inserts the arthroscope, a thin, camera-equipped instrument, through several small incisions. This allows for precise examination of the joint and performance of necessary interventions.

• The surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia.
• The type of intervention depends on the nature of the condition: removal of cartilage injuries, repair of tendon ruptures, or treatment of instability.
• Due to smaller incisions, pain after arthroscopic surgery is generally milder, and recovery time is shorter than with open surgeries.

Elbow Arthroscopy

When is it recommended?

Injuries and degenerative changes in the elbow joint can cause significant pain and restricted movement. Arthroscopic elbow surgery is particularly indicated in the following cases:

• Tennis elbow: Tendon inflammation caused by chronic overuse or repetitive movements, leading to persistent pain. The arthroscopic procedure can remove inflamed tissues and reduce pain.
• Cartilage injuries: Damaged or detached cartilage fragments can lead to obstruction of joint movement and pain. These can be removed during the intervention, promoting unimpeded movement.
• Chronic inflammation: In cases of long-term joint inflammation, arthroscopic intervention can help remove inflammatory tissues and relieve stress on the joint.

Elbow Arthroscopic Surgery Procedure and Recovery

During the surgery, the surgeon inserts the arthroscope and necessary surgical instruments through several small incisions. The intervention is performed under regional anesthesia or general anesthesia and focuses on treating the problematic area.

Post-operative pain is generally well-tolerated and subsides within a few days. Physiotherapy is crucial for regaining range of motion and restoring joint stability.

Return to sports activities occurs gradually, depending on the severity of the condition. After simpler interventions, everyday movements can be regained within 2-4 weeks, while for more strenuous activities, full recovery may take 2-3 months.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery time after upper limb arthroscopic surgery varies individually, but it can be significantly accelerated with proper rehabilitation. The goal is to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and regain joint stability.

How long is recovery after rotator cuff surgery?

The pace of healing depends on the nature of the intervention performed, but it can generally be divided into the following stages:

• First week: Rest, minimal movement, arm immobilization may be necessary.
• Weeks 2-6: Commencement of physiotherapy, gradual restoration of range of motion.
• Months 3-6: Strength-building exercises, regaining full mobility, gradual return to sports activities.

Pain after surgery – how long is it normal?

In the first few days, swelling and pain are natural reactions, which can be alleviated with painkillers and icing, among other methods. Pain gradually decreases, but if it persists or intensifies after 6-8 weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

For successful rehabilitation, consistent physiotherapy and adherence to medical instructions are important. If you have any questions about recovery, please feel free to contact our specialists!

Sports after Upper Limb Arthroscopic Surgery

The full recovery period depends on the type of upper limb arthroscopic surgery performed and the individual healing process. Rehabilitation gradually rebuilds joint mobility and load-bearing capacity, so it is important to follow the guidance of the treating physician and physiotherapist.

When can you return to active movement?

Sports can be gradually reintroduced as healing progresses:

• Light activity (e.g., walking, stationary bike): after 4-6 weeks
• Moderate intensity sports (e.g., swimming, jogging): after 3 months
• High intensity and contact sports (e.g., basketball, handball): after 6 months

Overloading too early can increase the risk of injury, so it is always advisable to consult a specialist for a safe return.