Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find answers to many of your questions about shoulder arthroscopy, (also known as keyhole shoulder surgery). Learn how it’s done, what it may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
For personal insights, see our patient experience videos in which HCF members talk frankly about their preparation, surgery and recovery.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-of-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for shoulder arthroscopy and learn how your choice of surgeon and hospital affect that cost.
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The basics
What’s shoulder arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy can be used to identify and repair damage to various parts of your shoulder joint, such as a rotator cuff tendon, ligament or labrum (the cartilage lining the rim of your shoulder joint). It can be used to remove loose fragments of bone or bony spurs. It can also release tight tissues which are causing pain and stiffness in your shoulder.
If you repeatedly dislocate your shoulder, your surgeon may recommend this surgery to stabilise the joint. Many shoulder surgeries are now done using arthroscopic (keyhole) techniques.
How’s it done?
Using a keyhole camera, known as an arthroscope, your surgeon performs the surgery through several small (1–2 cm) incisions. Images of the inside of your shoulder joint appear on a monitor. What happens during the surgery depends on your symptoms and what your surgeon sees from the images.
The details
CONSIDERING THE PROCEDURE
Alternatives to shoulder arthroscopy
There may be non-surgical ways to relieve pain.
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Types of shoulder arthroscopy
Your procedure will vary, depending on your problem.
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Results vs risks of the procedure
The benefits and potential risks of shoulder arthroscopy.
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Choosing a specialist
How to find an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in your procedure.
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PREPARATION
Questions for your specialist
What you should ask before going ahead with surgery.
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Preparing for your procedure
Pre-operative tests and preparation.
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Your anaesthetic options
The types of anaesthesia you may be offered.
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YOUR PROCEDURE
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your surgery.
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Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre.
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RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE
After your surgery
Your hospital stay.
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Recovery and aftercare
Resuming activities and watching for problems.
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Rehab for your shoulder
The importance of rehab to regaining function in your shoulder.
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PATIENT EXPERIENCES
People who’ve had shoulder arthroscopy talk about their preparation, hospital stay and recovery.
View videos
UP TO 15% OFF CTG MEDICAL DEVICES
Members receive up to 15% off selected Cabrini Technology Group (CTG) medical devices for ageing, post-surgery, rehab and home-based care*.
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Give us feedback
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know what you liked or what we can do to improve it. We'd love to hear from you.
To provide feedback, email us at wellbeing@hcf.com.au.
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Important information
* To access the discount, log in to the My Membership app or online member services, look for the CTG offer under Health & Wellbeing Programs, and click ‘Explore the CTG range’. Offer applies to selected products only.
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.
