Shoulder Arthroscopy: How Keyhole Surgery Restores Shoulder Mobility

What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the shoulder joint through a 5mm incision. This allows the surgeon to visualise the entire joint and perform precise surgical procedures through additional small portals — without opening the shoulder.

Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy

Rotator Cuff Tears

Partial and full-thickness tears of the rotator cuff muscles are repaired arthroscopically. The torn tendon is reattached to the bone using special suture anchors — with significantly less pain and faster healing than open surgery.

SLAP Tears

Tears of the cartilage rim around the shoulder socket — repaired arthroscopically. Common in overhead athletes and throwing sports.

Shoulder Impingement

Arthroscopic acromioplasty creates more space and relieves impingement when the rotator cuff tendons are compressed under the acromion.

Frozen Shoulder

In resistant frozen shoulder that fails physiotherapy and injections, arthroscopic capsular release provides immediate improvement in range of motion.

Recovery After Shoulder Arthroscopy

Most patients go home the same day. A sling is worn for 1-3 weeks. Physiotherapy begins early — usually within the first week. Return to desk work typically within 1-2 weeks, and sports within 3-6 months depending on the procedure.