What is Arthroscopic Frozen Shoulder Release?

An arthroscopic frozen shoulder release is a minimally invasive surgery that uses an arthroscope to relieve pain and restore normal function.

Overview of Frozen Shoulder

A frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and inflammation, resulting in a limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. This condition occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, called the shoulder capsule, becomes thick, tight, and inflamed, leading to scarring of the capsule. Consequently, the bones in the shoulder joint are unable to move freely, resulting in difficulty and discomfort when moving the shoulder. If not treated, this condition can worsen over time and significantly affect the mobility of the shoulder joint.

The surgery is aimed at releasing the tight capsule in the shoulder joint.

Indications for the Surgery

The primary indication for shoulder surgery is residual pain or continued stiffness, along with functional limitations, despite prolonged conservative treatment including medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulder

• The frozen shoulder most commonly affects people who:
• Are aged 40 to 70
• Occurs in women more often than men
• Have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, etc.
• Had a shoulder injury including fracture or shoulder surgery
• Have had a prolonged period of shoulder immobilization
• Preparing for Surgery

Before surgery, you will be instructed to:

It is important to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. You should avoid eating or drinking anything the night before your surgery. Make sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery. Additionally, wear clothing that is easy to put on and take off.

The Surgery

Arthroscopy is a common outpatient procedure to release a frozen shoulder. You can expect to be discharged on the same day. To ensure your comfort during the surgery, you will receive either local or general anesthesia depending on your needs. This will help to numb any pain or make you sleep, as required.

During surgery:

The surgery to repair a damaged shoulder joint involves making several small incisions around the affected area. An arthroscope is then guided to the affected spot to view the joint damage. Tiny instruments are inserted through the incisions to cut through the tight part of the capsule, remove scar tissue, and release the capsule to allow for better movement of the shoulder joint. After the surgery, the incisions around the shoulder are sutured and a dressing is applied. The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, and most patients have reported positive outcomes.

What Happens Immediately After Surgery?

After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room and monitored for about an hour.

After Surgery Care

After your surgery, you will be instructed to follow a few guidelines to ensure proper healing. You will be required to undergo physical therapy immediately, take your pain medications at regular intervals, keep the site of the procedure bandaged, and keep the bandage clean and dry. In rare cases, you may be required to splint your arm to keep the capsule stretched. Keep in mind that there are risks and complications associated with the surgery such as continued pain or a stiff shoulder even after prescribed rehabilitation. However, these are rare occurrences.

There are several risks involved in the procedure, such as infection, nerve or cartilage injury, and even a rare recurrence of a frozen shoulder. The recovery time usually varies from 6 weeks to 3 months and depends on your occupation and how well you comply with physical therapy. Your commitment to rehabilitation is crucial for a successful recovery and will help you quickly return to your normal activities. 

On the other hand, the benefits of the procedure include reduced or no pain in the shoulder, a full range of shoulder motion, and an improved quality of life.