Shoulder Surgeon
Are you an athlete who participates in sports that involve throwing overhead? If so, you may be at risk of developing a shoulder injury. Shoulder arthroscopy is an important surgical technique designed to treat an extensive array of shoulder injuries in a minimally invasive way with limited soft tissue damage. Shoulder surgeon, Doctor James Mazzara performs shoulder arthroscopy for patients in Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities who have sustained a shoulder injury that requires surgery. Contact Dr. Mazzara’s team today!
What is a Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery, also called minimally invasive surgery, is one of the most common procedures performed in the treatment of shoulder injuries. Shoulder arthroscopy uses a tiny camera called an arthroscope that is placed inside a small incision in the shoulder. Small, thin surgical instruments are also used to examine and repair the tissues inside and around the shoulder joint. Dr. James Mazzara, serving the Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities uses this minimally invasive surgery to offer his patients quicker healing time, less pain and better outcomes from shoulder surgery.
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Orthopedic shoulder surgeon, Dr. James Mazzara is able to offer shoulder arthroscopy under regional or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Most arthroscopic cases take less than an hour to perform, based on the extent of damage to the shoulder joint.
What Types of Injuries can be Treated with Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is used to treat a variety of injuries and conditions including:
What is Open Surgery?
In most cases, minimally invasive, or arthroscopic surgery is preferred. However, cases where a lot of shoulder damage has occurred, may require an open surgery. Open surgery is performed through one larger incision instead of a few small incisions. The following injuries may require open surgery:
- Rotator cuff tear that is large and complex
- Multiple injuries with vast shoulder damage requiring repair
- Total shoulder replacement surgery
What is the Recovery Time After Arthroscopic Surgery?
Recovery and rehabilitation may be faster in minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures. However, bones and tendons will take the same time to heal, whether they are repaired with an open procedure or arthroscopically. During this time, it is critical to follow Dr. Mazzara’s instructions for post-operative care. Healing time can vary and it is important not to reinjure the healing shoulder. Here is what to expect during the recovery phase of arthroscopic surgery:
- Swelling, bruising, pain and discomfort are normal in the week following an arthroscopic procedure. Icepacks are very important for the first 48 hours, although many patients find pain relief and continue to use them for several days.
- If you had a nerve block during arthroscopic surgery, the anesthetic may keep your arm and shoulder numb for several hours. Pain medication will be prescribed once the patient leaves the hospital. Usage instructions will be given and the patient should monitor dosages.
- Mazzara will suggest taking time off work for a few days.
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy is a key to arthroscopic surgery success. Dr. Mazzara will discuss findings from the surgery with his patient and depending on the extent of damage repaired, will make recommendations about the timing of exercises and returning to normal activities.
For more resources on arthroscopic shoulder surgery, or to determine if you are a candidate for shoulder arthroscopy, please contact the office of Dr. James Mazzara, shoulder surgeon treating patients living in the Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities.