Shoulder Arthroscopy: Your Complete Guide to Surgery & Recovery
Discover everything you need to know about shoulder arthroscopy, from the procedure and recovery timeline to rehabilitation and outcomes. Learn how minimally invasive surgery can help treat rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, and shoulder pain.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 16th Sep, 2025
Introduction
Shoulder pain can be debilitating, affecting daily activities like reaching, dressing, or lifting objects. When rest, physiotherapy, and medication fail to relieve discomfort, your doctor may recommend shoulder arthroscopy. This minimally invasive procedure allows surgeons to diagnose and repair shoulder issues with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. This guide covers why the surgery is performed, what to expect during the procedure, and the detailed recovery process, helping you make informed decisions and approach treatment with confidence.
What is Shoulder Arthroscopy? A Minimally Invasive Solution
Shoulder arthroscopy is a surgical technique that enables orthopaedic surgeons to examine, diagnose, and treat problems inside the shoulder joint using a small camera called an arthroscope. Inserted through a tiny incision, the arthroscope projects high-definition images onto a monitor, allowing the surgeon to guide miniature instruments through other small incisions to repair damaged tissues. Compared with open surgery, arthroscopy causes less disruption to muscles and tissues, resulting in reduced pain, lower infection risk, minimal scarring, and a faster recovery time for shoulder arthroscopy.
How Does Arthroscopy Differ from Open Shoulder Surgery?
The main difference is the incision size and approach. Open surgery requires a larger cut and often involves moving or cutting muscles to access the joint. Arthroscopy uses small portals for the camera and instruments, preserving surrounding structures. While some complex conditions still require open surgery, arthroscopy is highly effective for soft tissue injuries such as rotator cuff and labral tears.
Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Advice
Common Reasons You Might Need Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy can address various conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments.
1. Repairing a Torn Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Tears can cause pain and weakness. Arthroscopy allows surgeons to reattach the torn tendon to the bone using suture anchors, effectively restoring function.
2. Addressing Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation and Labral Tears
The labrum is a cartilage cuff lining the shoulder socket. Injuries can lead to dislocations and labral tears, such as a Bankart lesion, causing instability. Arthroscopy repairs and reattaches the labrum, securing the joint and reducing recurrence risk.
3. Relieving Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
This condition occurs when rotator cuff tendons are irritated as they pass through the subacromial space. When physiotherapy and injections fail, subacromial decompression via arthroscopy removes inflamed bursa and shaves a small portion of bone to create more space for tendon movement.
4. Treating Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
A frozen shoulder involves stiffness due to a tight joint capsule. Arthroscopic capsular release uses tiny instruments to cut through tightened tissue, restoring mobility and reducing pain when stretching or injections are ineffective.
5. Managing Arthritis and Removing Bone Spurs
While not a cure for arthritis, arthroscopy can ease symptoms by smoothing cartilage, removing inflamed tissue, and shaving painful bone spurs. Persistent shoulder pain despite therapy may warrant consultation with an orthopaedic specialist through Apollo24|7.
The Step-by-Step Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure
Understanding the procedure helps reduce anxiety.
A. Anaesthesia: Getting You Comfortable and Pain-Free
Surgery can be performed under regional anaesthesia (numbing the arm and shoulder), general anaesthesia, or a combination. Your anaesthesiologist recommends the safest approach for you.
B. The Surgical Process: Tiny Incisions and a Camera View
- Positioning: You are placed on your side or in a semi-seated "beach chair" position.
- Incision: Several small portals are made around the shoulder.
- Visualisation: The joint is expanded with sterile saline, and the arthroscope is inserted.
- Diagnosis and Repair: The surgeon examines cartilage, bones, tendons, and ligaments on a monitor, using instruments to repair damage.
- Closure: Instruments are removed, saline drained, and small incisions closed with stitches or steri-strips and covered with a soft bandage.
Most procedures take 1 to 2 hours, depending on complexity.
The Road to Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery occurs in phases and requires patience.
1. The First 24-48 Hours: Managing Pain and Swelling
Your arm will be in a sling. Pain is managed with medication and residual nerve block effects. Keep the arm elevated and apply cold packs to reduce swelling. Bandages should remain clean and dry.
2. The First 6 Weeks: The Sling and Early Mobility
The sling is worn for 4-6 weeks to protect repairs. Gentle, passive motion exercises guided by a physiotherapist prevent stiffness. Avoid lifting or active use of the arm.
3. Months 2-6: Regaining Strength and Full Function
Gradually wean off the sling and begin active range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. Therapy intensifies to restore full shoulder strength and function. Desk work is often possible within a week or two, but full activity, including sports, may take 4 to 6 months.
The Critical Role of Physical Therapy in Rehabilitation
Physical therapy restores function after surgery. Therapy progresses through phases:
- Phase 1 (Protective): Passive motion to prevent stiffness.
- Phase 2 (Active): Regain active range of motion.
- Phase 3 (Strengthening): Build shoulder and scapular strength.
- Phase 4 (Return to Activity): Sport- or work-specific training.
Skipping therapy can lead to a stiff, weak shoulder and suboptimal results.
How Successful is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Success depends on the condition treated, severity, patient age, and commitment to rehabilitation. Outcomes are generally excellent for rotator cuff repairs, labral injuries, and impingement relief when therapy is followed diligently.
Making the Decision: Is Shoulder Arthroscopy Right for You?
If chronic shoulder pain persists despite non-surgical measures, consult an orthopaedic specialist. They can determine if you are a suitable candidate. For further evaluation, book a physical visit with Apollo24|7 to explore all treatment options.
Conclusion
Shoulder arthroscopy provides a minimally invasive, precise way to restore function and relieve pain. Understanding the procedure, conditions treated, and recovery commitment is essential for optimal outcomes. Surgery is just one part of recovery; dedication to rehabilitation determines long-term success. Consult a specialist to decide whether this procedure is right for you.
Consult Top Orthopaedicians
Consult Top Orthopaedicians
Dr Vikas P Birla
Orthopedics-Sports Medicine
13 Years • MBBS, DNB, MNAMS, Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Vishruta A V
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Abhishek Vaish
Orthopaedician
9 Years • MBBS, MS (Orth), MCh (Orth) , DNB, MNAMS, Dip SICOT (Rome)
New Delhi
Apollo One Pusa Road, New Delhi
Dr. Krunal Soni
Orthopaedician
14 Years • M.Ch Orthopedics (U.K.), M.S. Orthopedics (Gold Medal), Fellow Arthroscopy & Sports Surgery (FASM), Fellow Shoulder Surgery (USA, Germany), FACS (USA), D. SICOT (Canada), Fellow in Arthroscopy (IOA, IAS)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
(700+ Patients)
Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Advice
Dr Vikas P Birla
Orthopedics-Sports Medicine
13 Years • MBBS, DNB, MNAMS, Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Vishruta A V
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Abhishek Vaish
Orthopaedician
9 Years • MBBS, MS (Orth), MCh (Orth) , DNB, MNAMS, Dip SICOT (Rome)
New Delhi
Apollo One Pusa Road, New Delhi
Dr. Krunal Soni
Orthopaedician
14 Years • M.Ch Orthopedics (U.K.), M.S. Orthopedics (Gold Medal), Fellow Arthroscopy & Sports Surgery (FASM), Fellow Shoulder Surgery (USA, Germany), FACS (USA), D. SICOT (Canada), Fellow in Arthroscopy (IOA, IAS)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
(700+ Patients)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I be in the hospital after shoulder arthroscopy?
Most shoulder arthroscopies are outpatient procedures, so you will likely go home the same day, usually within a few hours after surgery.
What is the typical success rate of rotator cuff surgery?
Success rates are generally high, often ranging from 85% to 95% for pain relief and improved function, depending on tear size, patient age, bone quality, and adherence to rehabilitation.
When can I drive after my procedure?
Driving is not allowed while wearing a sling or taking opioid medication. Most patients resume short-distance driving around six weeks after the sling is removed and adequate control is restored.
Will I need to sleep in my sling?
Yes, most surgeons advise wearing the sling for 4-6 weeks during sleep to protect the shoulder and avoid accidental movement.
What happens if my shoulder arthroscopy doesn't work?
Persistent pain or stiffness may occur rarely. Your surgeon will investigate with a physical exam and imaging. Treatment may include specialised physiotherapy, injections, or, in uncommon cases, revision surgery.