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.
See costs
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.
Learn more
Types of shoulder arthroscopy
Your procedure will vary, depending on your problem.
Learn more
Results vs risks of the procedure
The benefits and potential risks of shoulder arthroscopy.
Learn more
Choosing a specialist
How to find an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in your procedure.
Learn more
PREPARATION
Questions for your specialist
What you should ask before going ahead with surgery.
Learn more
Preparing for your procedure
Pre-operative tests and preparation.
Learn more
Your anaesthetic options
The types of anaesthesia you may be offered.
Learn more
YOUR PROCEDURE
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your surgery.
Learn more
Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre.
Learn more
RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE
After your surgery
Your hospital stay.
Learn more
Recovery and aftercare
Resuming activities and watching for problems.
Learn more
Rehab for your shoulder
The importance of rehab to regaining function in your shoulder.
Learn more
PATIENT EXPERIENCES
People who’ve had shoulder arthroscopy talk about their preparation, hospital stay and recovery.
View videos
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.
Related articles
HOSPITAL SAFETY & QUALITY SEARCH
Compare hospital safety and quality data before deciding where you're treated.
Find a doctor
Search for specialists who participate in our Medicover no-gap or known-gap scheme.
Find a health professional
Search for providers who participate in our More for You program. Find physios, chiros, podiatrists and more.
Important information
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.