Shoulder surgery in orthopedics refers to a range of surgical procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons to address various shoulder conditions, injuries, and disorders. Orthopedic shoulder surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve shoulder function, and enhance overall quality of life. Here are some key aspects of shoulder surgery in the field of orthopedics:
The word arthroscopy comes from two Greek words, "arthro" (joint) and "skopein" (to look). The term literally means "to look within the joint." During shoulder arthroscopy, your surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your shoulder joint. The camera displays pictures on a video monitor, and your surgeon uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments.
Shoulder arthroscopy has been performed since the 1970s. It has made diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from surgery easier and faster than was once thought possible. Improvements to shoulder arthroscopy occur every year as new instruments and techniques are developed.
Your doctor may offer surgery as an option for a torn rotator cuff if your pain does not improve with nonsurgical methods. Continued pain is the main indication for surgery. If you are very active and use your arms for overhead work or sports, your doctor may also suggest surgery.
External fixator types divide into several different subcategories, including uniplanar, multiplanar, unilateral, bilateral, and circular fixators. By adding pins in different planes (i.e., placed perpendicular to each other), one can create a multiplanar construct. Uniplanar fixation devices are fast and easy to apply but are not as sturdy as multiplanar fixation.
During arthroscopy, your surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your shoulder joint. The camera displays a live video feed on a monitor, and your surgeon uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments.
Because the arthroscope and surgical instruments are small and thin, your surgeon can use very small incisions (portals), rather than the larger incision needed for standard, open surgery.
All-arthroscopic repair is usually an outpatient procedure and is the least invasive method to repair a torn rotator cuff.