Shoulder arthroscopy
A simple surgical procedure to identify and treat conditions and injuries affecting your shoulderSometimes you may be referred for a shoulder arthroscopy to investigate and repair the cause of your shoulder pain. Also known as shoulder cartilage repair, an arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery that involves making very small incisions around your shoulder for a diagnostic procedure that is as minimally invasive as possible. A small, thin tube with a camera, known as an arthroscope, is used to examine the inside of your shoulder joint to identify what might be causing your pain.
Expert advice to help you manage your recovery
A benefit of a shoulder arthroscopy is the faster healing time involved, compared to other forms of surgery. We want to help you get back to your usual self and support a speedy recovery. You can ask your Consultant any questions you may have around the procedure, treatment and your recovery, to ensure you are well-informed and allow yourself time to heal properly. The Physiotherapy teams will also work with you on a programme that is tailored to your needs, so you can focus on a safe and efficient recovery.
Locations
You can see expert consultants and have a range of scans and tests at either one of our facilities below. If you need a procedure or surgery, this will be carried out at KIMS Hospital in Maidstone.
KIMS Hospital, Maidstone
Sevenoaks Medical Centre
Prices & payment
The above are guide prices only.
Consultants
FAQs
What does a shoulder arthroscopy procedure involve?
Your Consultant will discuss the procedure with you, so you know exactly what to expect.
During the procedure, your Consultant will examine the inside of your shoulder and wash out any loose material caused by wear of the joint surfaces. It is usually also possible for your Consultant to trim and repair a torn cartilage, or to remove any bone spurs and other problems without needing to make a larger cut.
Where will my surgery take place?
Regardless of where you had your initial consultation or scans, all surgical procedures take place at KIMS Hospital in Maidstone. Most outpatient appointments, including follow up appointments with your Consultant, can take place at either KIMS Hospital or Sevenoaks Medical Centre.
How long will I stay in hospital?
You should be able to go home the same day, although your Consultant will be able to discuss this with you prior to your procedure.
How long does it take to recover, and will I be in pain following shoulder surgery?
You should expect your shoulder to be swollen and sore to begin with, but this should ease over time and your Consultant will explain about managing pain control following your procedure.
It is usually possible to return to light activities within a couple of weeks of your procedure, but this will be dependent on the extent of the operation. It can take up to six months before you can take part in sports again.
Recovery time will vary from patient to patient. Your Consultant will be able to discuss your recovery time with you during your follow-up appointment.
When can I drive and go back to work?
As recovery time will vary from patient to patient, driving again or returning to work will also vary, depending on the progress you make. Usually, you should be able to start driving again a week to two weeks after your procedure.
Depending on your line of work, it’s usually possible to return to work within a couple of weeks after your procedure, but this will be dependent on the extent of the operation and the progress you make during recovery.
Your Consultant will be able to discuss your predicted recovery time with you.
- Make a general enquiry
- Appointment enquiry
Our team are on hand to help answer any queries you might have about coming to KIMS Hospital or Sevenoaks Medical Centre. You can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch. Alternatively to speak to a member of our team, please call 01622 237 727.
Enquiry hours are Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.
If you would like to book an appointment, you can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch.
Alternatively to speak to a member of our friendly team, please call 01622 237 500 between Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.
Please be aware, if you are requesting a diagnostic scan such as an MRI, or CT, you must have a referral from a relevant clinician or Allied Health professional such as a physiotherapist.