What are the main approaches to shoulder surgery?
Depending on your needs, Dr. Wilson may perform shoulder surgery using one of the following techniques:
Arthroscopic surgery
Arthroscopic surgery, also known as arthroscopy, uses a small instrument with a camera to look inside your joint through a buttonhole-sized incision. The scope relays images of the inside of your shoulder to a monitor, giving Dr. Wilson an up-close view.
If he detects a problem, Dr. Wilson can insert surgical tools to make repairs. He may use arthroscopy to diagnose and treat shoulder pain.
Open surgery
Open surgery uses larger incisions than arthroscopy and traditional surgical tools. In some cases, open surgery provides better results than arthroscopy.
When surgery is necessary, Dr. Wilson always uses the least invasive approach possible to preserve the maximum amount of healthy tissue.
What are some common shoulder surgery procedures?
Dr. Wilson has specialized training in the full spectrum of shoulder surgery procedures, including:
- Rotator cuff repair
- SLAP repair
- Frozen shoulder surgery
- Acromioclavicular (AC) joint repair
- Biceps tendon surgery
- Shoulder replacement
Depending on your condition and the overall health of your shoulder, Dr. Wilson may perform these procedures with an open or arthroscopic approach.
Why would I need shoulder surgery?
Many shoulder problems resolve with nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy and medication. If conservative treatments don’t provide adequate relief, or if your condition is severe, Dr. Wilson may recommend shoulder surgery.
Shoulder surgery can provide pain relief and improved mobility for a variety of conditions, such as:
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Shoulder impingement
- Shoulder instability
- Shoulder fractures
- Arthritis
Dr. Wilson performs a thorough orthopedic exam and reviews your medical history to determine if shoulder surgery is right for you.
What should I expect from shoulder surgery?
Before your procedure, Dr. Wilson carefully explains your condition and what to expect from the type of surgery you need. He usually performs arthroscopy as an outpatient procedure, while open surgeries may occur in a hospital.
Because he’s dedicated to providing concierge medical care, Dr. Wilson gives you his personal cellphone number so you can contact him with any questions or concerns throughout the recovery process.
After surgery, it’s important to follow the exercise program Dr. Wilson recommends so you can regain pain-free use of your shoulder.
For advanced care in shoulder surgery, call Shoulder Expert of Raleigh, or book an appointment online today.
