Shoulder Arthroscopy
Keyhole surgery to treat shoulder injuries and joint issues.
Shoulder arthroscopy uses a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions to diagnose and treat problems inside the shoulder joint, avoiding the need for a large open incision. It is commonly used for rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, and impingement that have not responded to non-surgical treatment.
Types
Rotator Cuff Repair
Torn rotator cuff tendons are reattached to the bone using small anchors, performed arthroscopically.
Subacromial Decompression
Bone or soft tissue causing impingement is trimmed to relieve pinching of the rotator cuff.
Labral Repair
The cartilage rim of the shoulder socket is repaired, often used for shoulder instability or SLAP tears.
Capsular Release
Tight or scarred joint tissue is released, used for frozen shoulder that has not improved with other treatment.
Bankart Repair
A specific labral repair used for recurrent shoulder dislocation.
Common Causes
Shoulder arthroscopy addresses a range of conditions, generally arising from injury, repetitive strain, or age-related degeneration of the shoulder's soft tissues.
- Rotator cuff tears - from a fall, sudden lifting injury, or gradual degeneration with age.
- Shoulder impingement - repetitive overhead activity causing the rotator cuff to catch under the shoulder bone.
- Shoulder dislocation - traumatic dislocation that damages the labrum and increases the risk of recurrence.
- Frozen shoulder - long-standing stiffness that has not responded to physiotherapy or injections.
- Labral tears - from injury or repetitive overhead sports like swimming, throwing, or racquet sports.
Signs and Symptoms
- Shoulder pain, especially with overhead movement
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- A catching or clicking sensation within the joint
- Recurrent shoulder dislocation or a feeling of instability
- Stiffness that significantly limits the shoulder's range of motion
Diagnosis
Diagnosis combines a clinical examination of shoulder strength, stability, and movement with an MRI, which shows the rotator cuff, labrum, and surrounding soft tissue in detail before arthroscopic treatment is planned.
Treatment Approach
The procedure is performed through small incisions using a camera and fine instruments to repair or address the specific problem identified. Recovery typically involves a period of arm support followed by a structured physiotherapy programme to restore strength and movement. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna explains the specific repair planned and the recovery timeline before the procedure.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026