Top 5 Shoulder Surgery Techniques Used by Cape Town Orthopaedic Surgeons

Shoulder injuries can be incredibly debilitating, affecting everything from daily activities to sports performance. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques have made it possible to treat these injuries more effectively than ever before. In Cape Town, orthopaedic surgeons are at the forefront of these innovations, offering a range of shoulder surgery techniques to help patients regain mobility and reduce pain. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 shoulder surgery techniques used by Cape Town orthopaedic surgeons, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of each method and its benefits.

1. Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive technique that involves making small incisions around the shoulder joint to insert a tiny camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments. This method allows surgeons to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions with greater precision and minimal tissue damage.

Advantages: The primary advantages of arthroscopic shoulder surgery include reduced postoperative pain, shorter recovery times, and smaller scars. This technique is commonly used to treat conditions such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and shoulder impingement syndrome.

Example: Studies have shown that patients who undergo arthroscopic shoulder surgery experience a 70-90% success rate in terms of pain relief and improved shoulder function.

2. Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries are common, especially among athletes and older adults. Rotator cuff repair surgery aims to reattach the torn tendons to the bone and restore shoulder function.

Techniques: There are two main techniques for rotator cuff repair: open surgery and arthroscopic repair. While open surgery involves a larger incision, arthroscopic repair is less invasive and offers faster recovery times.

Statistics: According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 80-85% of patients report significant improvements in pain and function following rotator cuff repair surgery.

3. Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a procedure in which damaged parts of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components. This surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis or irreparable shoulder damage.

Types: There are two main types of shoulder replacement surgery: total shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement. Total shoulder replacement involves replacing both the ball and socket of the joint, while reverse shoulder replacement is used for patients with damaged rotator cuffs.

Outcome: Research indicates that over 90% of patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder function following shoulder replacement surgery.

4. Bankart Repair

Bankart repair is a surgical procedure used to treat shoulder instability caused by recurrent dislocations. This condition often results from a tear in the labrum, the cartilage that lines the socket of the shoulder joint.

Procedure: During Bankart repair, the torn labrum is reattached to the socket using sutures or anchors. This procedure can be performed arthroscopically or through open surgery, depending on the severity of the tear.

Success Rate: Studies have shown that 85-90% of patients who undergo Bankart repair experience long-term stability and reduced risk of future dislocations.

5. SLAP Repair

SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tears are injuries to the top part of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches. These tears can cause pain, instability, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Technique: SLAP repair surgery involves reattaching the torn labrum to the bone using sutures or anchors. This procedure is typically performed arthroscopically to minimize tissue damage and promote faster recovery.

Recovery: Most patients can expect to return to their normal activities within 4-6 months following SLAP repair surgery, with a success rate of around 80-90% in terms of pain relief and improved shoulder function.

Conclusion

Shoulder injuries can significantly impact your quality of life, but with the right surgical technique, you can regain mobility and reduce pain. Cape Town orthopaedic surgeons are skilled in a variety of shoulder surgery techniques, including arthroscopic shoulder surgery, rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement surgery, Bankart repair, and SLAP repair. Each of these procedures offers unique benefits and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the patient.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain or instability, it’s essential to consult with a qualified orthopaedic surgeon to discuss your treatment options. With the right care and expertise, you can look forward to a successful recovery and a return to your daily activities.