Shoulder and elbow surgery includes arthroscopic treatment of damaged ligaments, cartilage or tendons, and replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial one when needed. Doctors use it for injuries, tears, severe wear and joint inflammation, with the aim of relieving pain and restoring movement and arm function.
In arthroscopy, a small camera and fine instruments are passed through small incisions to diagnose and repair the problem. Joint replacement needs a larger incision, through which the surgeon removes the damaged bone surface and fixes an artificial component in place. Operations are usually done under general anaesthesia, sometimes with a nerve block to ease pain afterwards.
The operation lasts from under an hour to a few hours, depending on its type. The arm is kept in a sling for a period, then gradual physiotherapy begins. Healing takes weeks after arthroscopy and several months after replacement, and the final result usually becomes clear after several months.
The final cost is set after a medical consultant reviews your case and photos.
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It may relieve chronic pain, improve range of motion and strength, and help you return to daily and sporting activities. The benefit depends on the type of problem and the procedure used.
Usually people with pain, stiffness or instability in the joint that has not improved with conservative treatment such as medicines and physiotherapy, with a diagnosis confirmed by examination and imaging. The surgeon decides which procedure suits each case.
Blood tests, imaging and an anaesthesia assessment are done, and the doctor reviews your medicines. Never stop a prescribed medicine, especially blood thinners, without your doctor's instructions. It helps to prepare your home for a period of limited arm use.
Both are usually done under general anaesthesia. In arthroscopy the surgeon repairs or cleans joint tissue through small incisions and keeps the natural joint. In replacement the joint is opened, the damaged surfaces are removed and artificial components are fixed in their place, which is used for severe damage. The surgeon chooses the most suitable option after examination and imaging.
The arm is placed in a sling for a period set by the surgeon, followed by gradual physiotherapy. Recovery is often faster after arthroscopy, while replacement usually takes several months to regain movement and strength.
The final result is usually clear after several months of regular physiotherapy. Artificial joints last many years in many cases, but this varies with activity level and general health.
They include infection, bleeding, joint stiffness, nerve or blood vessel injury, instability and re-tearing, problems with the artificial joint or the need for another operation, as well as anaesthesia complications. The surgeon explains the risks specific to your case.
Arthroscopy leaves several small scars, while replacement may leave a longer scar on the shoulder or elbow. Scars fade gradually, to a degree that differs from person to person.
Often after about 5 to 10 days following arthroscopy and 7 to 14 days following replacement, to allow wound checks and the start of physiotherapy. The treating doctor confirms the right time for you.
Yes. Physiotherapy is a key part of recovery, as it restores movement gradually, strengthens the muscles and protects the surgical repair. The therapist designs the programme in coordination with the surgeon.
