Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgeon in Houston, TX
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, and shoulder instability. Mark S. Adickes, MD provides advanced shoulder arthroscopy in Houston, Texas, helping patients reduce pain, restore mobility, and return to an active lifestyle with faster recovery and less disruption to surrounding tissue.
What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to view, diagnose, and treat joint problems with precision using specialized instruments.
Because the procedure uses smaller incisions than traditional open surgery, patients typically experience less pain, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is commonly used to treat:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears (SLAP tears)
- Shoulder instability or dislocation
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Biceps tendon injuries
- Inflammation or arthritis within the joint
This minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to address a wide range of shoulder problems while preserving surrounding structures.
Who Is a Candidate for Shoulder Arthroscopy?
You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with conservative treatment
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
- Weakness affecting daily activities or sports
- Recurrent shoulder instability or dislocations
- Structural damage confirmed by imaging
- Arthroscopy is often recommended when non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy or injections do not provide sufficient relief.
Why Choose Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
Compared to traditional open surgery, shoulder arthroscopy offers:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Less post-operative pain
- Faster recovery and rehabilitation
- Lower risk of complications
- Earlier return to activity
What is the difference between hip, shoulder and knee arthroscopy?
What is a bone spur in the shoulder?
The arthroscope is a fiber-optic telescope that can be inserted into a joint (commonly the knee, shoulder and ankle) to evaluate and treat a number of conditions. A camera is attached to the arthroscope and the picture is visualized on a TV monitor. Most arthroscopic surgery is performed as day surgery and is usually done under general anesthesia. Knee arthroscopy is common, and millions of procedures are performed each year around the world.
Arthroscopy is useful in evaluating and treating the following conditions
- Torn floating cartilage (meniscus): The cartilage is trimmed to a stable rim or occasionally repaired
- Torn surface (articular) cartilage
- Removal of loose bodies (cartilage or bone that has broken off) and cysts
- Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate ligament
- Patello-femoral (knee-cap) disorders
- Washout of infected knees
- General diagnostic purposes
Shoulder Arthroscopy Recovery Timeline
Recovery after shoulder arthroscopy varies depending on the procedure performed, but most patients can expect:
- First 1–2 weeks: healing of incisions and use of a sling
- 2–6 weeks: gradual return of motion with physical therapy
- 6–12 weeks: strengthening and improved function
- 3–6 months: return to full activity or sports
While initial recovery is relatively quick, full rehabilitation is essential to restore strength and mobility.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions
- Reduced pain and faster healing compared to open surgery
- Outpatient procedure in most cases
- Improved joint function and mobility
- Effective treatment for a wide range of shoulder conditions
Arthroscopy has become the standard approach for many shoulder procedures due to its safety and effectiveness.
Why Choose Mark S. Adickes, MD for Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Patients choose Dr. Adickes for his expertise in sports medicine and minimally invasive surgical techniques. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and former professional athlete, he understands the importance of restoring performance and function. His approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized care, and helping patients return to the activities they enjoy.
Serving Houston and Surrounding Communities
Conveniently located in Houston, TX, this practice serves patients throughout the region, including Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Memorial, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Arthroscopy
How long does shoulder arthroscopy surgery take?
Most procedures take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the condition being treated.
Is shoulder arthroscopy painful?
Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort after surgery, but pain is typically less than with open surgery and improves over time.
When can I return to work after shoulder arthroscopy?
Return to work depends on the procedure and job type. Some patients return within a few weeks, while more demanding activities may take longer.
Is shoulder arthroscopy safe?
Shoulder arthroscopy is considered a safe procedure with a low risk of complications when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Yes, physical therapy is a critical part of recovery and helps restore strength, flexibility, and function.
When should I consider shoulder arthroscopy?
If shoulder pain, instability, or limited mobility persists despite conservative treatment, surgical evaluation may be recommended.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Adickes to learn whether shoulder arthroscopy is the right treatment option for you.
