Austin Shoulder Surgery Specialist
Shoulder pain and lack of movement may require surgery. At ATX Orthopedics, Dr. Benjamin Amis is a leading provider of advanced shoulder surgery which can help Austin, Texas patients with finding relief and getting moving again.
Shoulder Surgery Q&A
What conditions can shoulder surgery treat?
Shoulder surgery can be used to address numerous conditions which affect a person’s ability to move their shoulder freely including:
- Bursitis or tendonitis
- Impingement and partial rotator cuff tear
- Full-thickness rotator cuff tear
- Instability
- Fractured collarbone
- Acromioclavicular joint separation
- Fractured head of the humerus
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
What types of shoulder surgeries are there?
Patients will likely be presented with two options: to undergo an arthroscopic procedure or to undergo an open procedure.
Arthroscopy– this allows the orthopedic surgeon to insert a very thin instrument with a camera and lighting system, known as an arthroscope, into tiny incisions to view the inside the joint. The images are transmitted to a TV monitor which allows the surgeon to make a proper diagnosis and perform repairs. Other surgical instruments are inserted through additional tiny incisions to perform the repairs. Arthroscopy is frequently performed as an outpatient basis. This type of procedure typically offers reduced bleeding, scarring, and healing times.
Open Surgery– this can be necessary and, occasionally, can provide better results than an arthroscopic procedure can. This will all depend on what is wrong with the shoulder. Open surgery usually requires a few incisions a couple of inches in length.
Recovery and rehabilitation will depend on the type of procedure used and the type of injury or damage to the shoulder.
What should I do to prepare for surgery?
The night prior to surgery it is important not to consume food or drink after midnight. If medications are required in the morning, the doctor will provide instructions. An hour before the operation, patients will be assessed by the nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist. Often times an exercise program was used prior to the surgery as treatment, it is important that patients continue a shoulder exercise program with daily stretching and strengthening following their recovery. For more information, contact the office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Amis.