SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY

Shoulder arthroscopy in Almería

Shoulder arthroscopy in Almería is a high-precision surgical procedure that allows the diagnosis and treatment of various injuries and pathologies affecting the glenohumeral joint. This procedure, performed by Dr. Claudio Vázquez, an expert orthopedic surgeon, is based on the use of a camera measuring just 4 millimeters and specialized instruments, introduced through small incisions called portals. Thanks to this technique, it is possible to directly explore ligaments, tendons, and internal shoulder structures, detect lesions not visible on imaging tests, and address them during the same surgical intervention.

Arthroscopy belongs to the group of minimally invasive techniques, which involves smaller incisions, less tissue trauma, reduced postoperative pain, better aesthetic outcomes, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Indications and pathologies treated with shoulder arthroscopy in Almería

Shoulder arthroscopy in Almería is indicated when conservative treatments (physical therapy, rest, or anti-inflammatory medication) have failed to relieve pain or restore shoulder function. The main pathologies treated include:

Rotator cuff tear, especially of the supraspinatus tendon, causing sharp pain and loss of strength.
Glenoid labrum injury, which can cause clicking, locking, and a sensation of instability.
Shoulder osteoarthritis, treated by joint cleaning to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Subacromial bursitis and impingement syndrome, where internal structures become inflamed or compressed, hindering movement.
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, characterized by progressive stiffness and chronic pain.
Recurrent instability, which often requires ligament repair to prevent further dislocations.

In each case, Dr. Claudio Vázquez tailors the surgical technique to the patient’s specific lesion, optimizing results and minimizing risks.

Surgical procedure and advantages of shoulder arthroscopy in Almería

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Shoulder arthroscopy in Almería is generally performed under regional or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the injury. After making the small incisions, a camera is introduced that projects the image of the inside of the shoulder onto a high-definition monitor. This allows precise work on structures such as cartilage, tendons, or the joint capsule.
Among the most notable advantages of shoulder arthroscopy are:

Less damage to surrounding tissues.
Faster and more comfortable recovery.
Reduced risk of infections and complications.
Small scars and better aesthetic outcome.
Diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure.

Additionally, arthroscopy sometimes reveals hidden injuries that had not been detected by MRI or ultrasound, enabling immediate treatment and avoiding future interventions.

Recovery and follow-up after shoulder arthroscopy in Almería

The recovery process is divided into progressive phases, requiring medical supervision and specialized physiotherapy:

Immediate postoperative phase (0-2 weeks)
The shoulder is immobilized with a sling, especially if the rotator cuff has been repaired. Measures are taken to control pain and inflammation, and gentle movements of the hand, wrist, and elbow are started.
Assisted mobilization phase (2-6 weeks)
Passive and active-assisted exercises are introduced to maintain mobility without compromising healing. The sling is gradually removed.
Strengthening phase (6-12 weeks)
Shoulder muscles are worked on, improving strength and movement control. Exercises become more functional.
Functional return phase (3-6 months)
The patient resumes usual activities, including sports or physical work. In most cases, functionality approaches the level prior to the injury.

It is common to experience mild to moderate pain, swelling, and some stiffness during the first weeks. With appropriate rehabilitation, most patients fully recover shoulder mobility and strength after shoulder arthroscopy in Almería.