Performed by Dr. Hari Prakash at Dr Hariprakash
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to look inside the shoulder joint using a thin camera called an arthroscope. Through small incisions, specialized instruments repair damaged tissue, remove loose fragments, or address other joint problems. Dr Hariprakash performs this procedure to help patients with shoulder conditions that have not improved with non-surgical treatment.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
You receive either general anaesthesia or a regional nerve block to numb the shoulder and arm area, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure.
The surgeon makes a small incision about the size of a buttonhole and inserts the arthroscope—a thin tube with a camera and light—into the shoulder joint. Images appear on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint.
One or more additional small incisions are made to insert specialized surgical instruments needed to perform the repair or treatment.
Using the instruments, the surgeon addresses the problem—repairing torn tendons or ligaments, removing damaged cartilage, smoothing rough surfaces, or removing loose fragments, depending on your diagnosis.
Once the work is complete, the instruments are removed and the small incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape. A sterile dressing is applied.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Hariprakash reviews your imaging studies, examines your shoulder, and discusses your symptoms and goals to plan the surgical approach tailored to your condition.
Using the arthroscope for clear visualization, Dr Hariprakash identifies and addresses the specific issues within your shoulder joint through carefully placed small incisions.
The technique and extent of repair are adapted to what is found during the procedure—whether that involves suturing torn tissue, removing debris, or smoothing damaged areas.
After surgery, you receive detailed instructions for wound care, pain management, sling use, and the rehabilitation plan to support your recovery.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first few weeks focus on protecting the repair with a sling, managing pain and swelling with medication and ice, and performing gentle pendulum exercises as directed. Most people need help with daily tasks during this time.
Over the next several weeks to months, physical therapy gradually restores range of motion and then builds strength. The pace depends on what was repaired and how the tissue is healing. Individual instructions take priority over general timelines.
As strength and stability improve, you progressively return to work, sport, and daily activities. Full recovery can take several months, and some restrictions may apply depending on the nature of the repair.
Arthroscopic surgery aims to reduce shoulder pain and improve your ability to move and use your arm for daily activities. The degree of improvement depends on the type and severity of the problem, the quality of tissue, and your commitment to rehabilitation.
The procedure can reattach torn tendons, stabilize the joint, or remove problematic tissue. However, it cannot reverse advanced arthritis or guarantee that all shoulder symptoms will disappear completely.
Compared to open surgery, arthroscopic techniques result in smaller incisions and often less early discomfort. However, the time for internal healing and return to full strength is still lengthy.
Not all shoulder problems are suitable for arthroscopic repair, and some conditions may still require open surgery. Results vary, and factors like age, tissue quality, and adherence to therapy influence the final outcome.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification can improve many shoulder problems without surgery. This is often the first approach, especially for mild or early conditions.
Injections into the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues may reduce inflammation and pain temporarily. They are sometimes used to delay or avoid surgery, or to aid diagnosis.
Larger incisions allow direct access to the shoulder joint and may be needed for complex tears, severe instability, or when arthroscopic repair is not feasible. The choice depends on the diagnosis, anatomy, and surgeon's assessment.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about arthroscopic surgeries - shoulder.
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