Comprehensive Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery
Reach Further with Expert Shoulder Care
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera, called an arthroscope, to look inside the shoulder joint and diagnose or repair damage without a large incision, treating everything from rotator cuff tears to instability with less downtime than open surgery.
At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. Stuart Springer brings more than 40 years of experience as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic surgery, with offices across New York and New Jersey. He takes the time to understand each patient's goals before recommending a treatment plan, and patients recovering from a sports injury, a workplace accident, or another form of personal injury can count on that same thorough evaluation.
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited range of motion is holding you back, request an appointment with HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care today.
What to Expect from Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery
Understanding the Procedure and Recovery
Shoulder arthroscopy is one of several arthroscopic procedures offered at HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, alongside similar treatments for the knee, hip, and ankle.
What Shoulder Arthroscopy Can Treat
Shoulder arthroscopy can diagnose and treat several common causes of shoulder joint pain, including:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears or shoulder instability
- Shoulder impingement, where tendons rub against nearby bone
- Biceps tendon damage
- Recurrent shoulder dislocations
How the Procedure Works
The surgeon makes a few small incisions around the shoulder. The arthroscope goes in through one incision to give a clear, magnified view of the joint, while small instruments work through the others to repair or remove damaged tissue. Most patients go home the same day.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery unfolds in stages, and most patients move through them like this:
- Right After Surgery: A sling is often worn briefly to protect the shoulder while initial healing begins.
- First Few Weeks: Gentle movement and light activity typically resume, depending on the extent of the repair.
- Longer Term: Physical therapy is often recommended to rebuild strength and restore full range of motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can shoulder arthroscopy treat?
Shoulder arthroscopy can diagnose and treat a wide range of joint problems, including rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement, and recurrent dislocations. Shoulder joint pain causes vary widely, from repetitive strain and sports injuries to age-related wear, and arthroscopy allows your provider to pinpoint the exact source. Because the procedure allows direct visualization of the joint, it often leads to a more targeted and effective treatment plan than relying on imaging alone.
How much does shoulder arthroscopy cost, and will insurance cover it?
The cost of shoulder arthroscopy depends on factors like the extent of the repair needed and your specific insurance coverage. HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care accepts most major insurance plans, along with personal injury and workers' compensation claims, and our team is happy to walk through coverage details during a consultation. You can find more information on our insurance page, or reach out directly with any questions about your specific plan.
What happens during my consultation for shoulder arthroscopy?
Most patients come to us already diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear, labral tear, or another joint problem, often after other treatment hasn't provided lasting relief. During your consultation, Dr. Springer reviews your imaging and treatment history to confirm the right surgical approach for your specific injury, so you know exactly what to expect heading into surgery and recovery.
Will transportation be provided on the day of my surgery?
Yes. The surgical center provides transportation to and from the center on the day of your surgery, so you don't have to worry about driving or finding parking. New York and New Jersey both require a companion to accompany you on the day of surgery, and this service helps take care of that requirement too, which is often a relief for patients who don't have someone available to drive them.
Why should I choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care for shoulder arthroscopy near me?
Patients choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care because Dr. Springer brings the same board-certified expertise to every joint he treats, including the knee, hip, and ankle in addition to the shoulder. With more than 40 years of experience, he takes an individualized approach to each patient's care, whether that means a minimally invasive repair or a more conservative treatment path first.
We also work closely with patients recovering from sports injuries, workplace accidents, no fault, and personal injury cases.