Shoulder Arthroscopy: A Minimally Invasive Option
What Is It?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder problems. Surgeons use a small camera, called an arthroscope, which is inserted into the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to see inside the joint and perform repairs without opening up the entire shoulder.
What Does It Treat?
Arthroscopy is commonly used to treat:
- Rotator cuff tears: When the tendons in your shoulder are torn or damaged.
- Labral tears: Tears in the cartilage that cushions your shoulder joint.
- Shoulder impingement: When the shoulder blade rubs against the tendons in your shoulder.
- Frozen shoulder: A condition where the shoulder joint stiffens, limiting range of motion.
- Loose bodies: Fragments of bone or cartilage floating in the joint.
Benefits of Arthroscopy
- Smaller incisions: The scars are tiny, and healing is often quicker.
- Less pain: Because it’s minimally invasive, there’s typically less post-surgery pain.
- Quicker recovery: Patients usually get back to their normal activities faster than with open surgery.
Shoulder Replacement: A Solution for Severe Joint Damage
What Is It?
Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, involves removing damaged parts of the shoulder joint and replacing them with artificial components. This procedure is more extensive than arthroscopy and is generally reserved for people with severe joint damage, often due to arthritis or significant injury.
What Does It Treat?
Shoulder replacement is typically recommended for:
- Severe arthritis: When the cartilage that cushions the bones in your shoulder wears away, causing pain and stiffness.
- Fractures: Serious breaks in the shoulder bone that can’t be fixed with other treatments.
- Irreparable rotator cuff injuries: When the rotator cuff is so damaged that it cannot be repaired, leading to arthritis and shoulder dysfunction.
Benefits of Shoulder Replacement
- Long-term pain relief: Replacing the damaged joint often results in lasting pain relief.
- Restored mobility: Many patients experience improved shoulder function and range of motion.
- Durability: Modern prosthetic joints can last for many years, offering a permanent solution to chronic shoulder pain.
Which Surgery Is Right for You?
Choosing between shoulder arthroscopy and shoulder replacement depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health. If you have mild to moderate shoulder problems, especially soft tissue damage like a rotator cuff tear, arthroscopy may be all you need. It’s less invasive, and recovery is faster.
However, if you suffer from severe arthritis, fractures, or joint degeneration, shoulder replacement may be the best option to eliminate pain and restore function. Your doctor will consider factors such as your age, activity level, and the specific issues affecting your shoulder when recommending the right treatment.
How Vahan Cepkinian, MD Can Help
Vahan Cepkinian, MD is a highly respected orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder surgeries, including both shoulder arthroscopy and shoulder replacement. With years of experience and a personalized approach to care, Dr. Cepkinian works closely with his patients to create the best treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
- Expertise in Minimally Invasive Surgery: Dr. Cepkinian is skilled in performing shoulder arthroscopy, ensuring quicker recovery times and less pain for patients dealing with rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and other common issues.
- Shoulder Replacement Specialist: For patients facing severe joint damage, Dr. Cepkinian offers advanced shoulder replacement techniques to help restore function and reduce pain. He takes the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, set expectations for recovery, and ensure that patients feel comfortable with their treatment options.
- Comprehensive Care: Whether you need a simple arthroscopy or a complete joint replacement, Dr. Cepkinian is with you every step of the way, from diagnosis through recovery. His patient-centered approach ensures you get the care you need to return to an active, pain-free life.
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain and wondering whether shoulder arthroscopy or replacement is right for you, Dr. Cepkinian can provide the expert guidance and treatment you need to make the best decision.
Conclusion
Shoulder pain can greatly impact your quality of life, but with the right treatment, you can get back to doing the things you love. Whether it’s a minimally invasive arthroscopy or a more extensive shoulder replacement, there’s a solution to help you find relief. Consult with a specialist like Vahan Cepkinian, MD to explore your options and start your journey to recovery.