When faced with the prospect of surgery, the traditional image of extensive incisions and prolonged recovery may cause apprehension. Learn how arthroscopic minimally invasive surgery is performed, how it can be used to treat shoulder injuries, and its recommended application.
Dr. Wame Waggenspack, in Houston, Texas, has a wealth of experience performing arthroscopic surgery. Contact our office to learn how it could benefit you!
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Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery technique that involves performing procedures through small incisions. This is very different from traditional open surgery, which requires larger cuts.
This modern technique employs specialized instruments and imaging tools that enable surgeons to operate with precision through tiny openings. Dr. Waggenspack is able to use arthroscopic equipment to treat many conditions without causing extensive damage to surrounding tissue.
Minimally invasive surgery includes various procedures, such as endoscopic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic surgery—each tailored to specific medical needs. When minimally invasive surgery is used to treat joints in the body, it is called arthroscopy.
Dr. Wame Waggenspack uses specialized surgical instruments that are inserted into the surgical site through small incisions.
This approach allows improved visualization of the entire shoulder, reduces the risk of complications, lowers blood loss, and minimizes tissue damage compared to traditional surgery.
Dr. Waggenspack can address the following shoulder surgeries arthroscopically:
While most simple rotator cuff tears can be managed successfully without surgery, some patients require surgical intervention to address their pain and dysfunction. During a rotator cuff repair procedure, the tendons’ edges are aligned and secured by attaching them to the bone using sutures.
To facilitate this attachment, surgeons commonly use small implants known as suture anchors. Rotator cuff repair can vary widely from a simple repair requiring a few sutures to a large repair of multiple tendons with numerous anchors and sutures. Dr Waggenspack will discuss the exact details of your injury and expected repair prior to surgery.
A torn labrum can cause shoulder instability. This is the cartilage that lines the rim of the shoulder joint. There are two common types of labrum tear. A Bankart lesion is when the lower part of the shoulder joint is torn. A part of the glenoid bone can also break off.
A SLAP lesion is when the top part of the labrum is torn along with the ligament. The labrum can be repaired along with any other torn ligaments in the same area.
Tears, inflammation, and instability of the biceps tendon in the shoulder joint can cause debilitating pain and dysfunction for some patients. During this arthroscopic surgery, the biceps tendon is detached from its normal attachment in the socket, and re-attached lower in the arm to improve pain and mobility/function.
Degeneration and arthritis in the acromioclavicular shoulder joint at the end of the clavicle (collarbone) can cause debilitating pain and dysfunction for some patients. During this arthroscopic surgery, the arthritic joint is removed by shaving the bone ends in order to improve pain and mobility/function.
Degeneration and arthritis in the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint can cause debilitating pain and dysfunction for some patients. Unfortunately, if the damage is too severe, the only option is replacing the joint through an open procedure. However, if the damage is milder, certain patients can benefit from an arthroscopic procedure to “clean up” damaged tissue, called a debridement.
The presence of a bone spur on the acromion’s underside can lead to inflammation and shoulder pain, prompting the surgical intervention to alleviate discomfort and restore functionality.
During this procedure, damaged or inflamed tissue located above the shoulder joint is removed. Dr. Waggenspack may also release the coracoacromial ligament and/or shave the underside of the acromion bone, part of the scapula.
Thoracic outlet syndrome refers to a spectrum of related conditions that all involve compression of the nerves and blood vessels to the arm at the shoulder joint. Some patients with thoracic outlet syndrome have a tight tendon called the pectoralis minor that causes their symptoms. A simple arthroscopic procedure to release this tendon can alleviate pain and dysfunction not relieved with non-surgical treatment.
Certain fractures (breaks) in the socket (glenoid) and surrounding scapula are able to be treated using arthroscopic techniques. In these instances, this allows the patient to avoid a large open incision.
Book your appointment with Dr. Wame Waggenspack, located in Houston, TX. Our doctor specializes in various minimally invasive techniques for shoulder repair.
He will prioritize your well-being by offering innovative solutions that align with your needs. Contact us today to explore how minimally invasive procedures might be the right choice for you or your loved ones!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wame Waggenspack
Need expert elbow surgery in Houston, TX? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics treats elbow injuries and conditions with personalized surgical and non-surgical solutions to restore strength, motion, and function.
Need expert shoulder surgery in Houston, TX? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics offers advanced arthroscopic and open shoulder procedures, including rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement, and fracture repair to restore function and relieve pain.
Sidelined by a sports injury? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics in Houston, TX provides expert sports medicine care for shoulder and elbow injuries, helping athletes safely return to activity and performance.
Struggling with shoulder arthritis pain or stiffness? Dr Waggenspack Orthopedics in Houston, TX offers expert evaluation and treatment options, including injections and shoulder replacement, to relieve pain and improve mobility.
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