Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery?
An orthopedic surgeon, a surgeon who treats bones and joints, performs arthroscopic shoulder surgery. A physical therapist, an exercise and rehabilitation specialist, may guide your recovery afterward. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Arthroscopy is a procedure that orthopedic surgeons use to inspect, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. In shoulder arthroscopy, the surgeon puts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your shoulder joint. The camera shows pictures on a video monitor, and the surgeon uses them to guide tiny surgical tools. The surgeon can use very small cuts instead of the larger cuts needed for open surgery.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Your doctor may recommend it for a painful shoulder problem. This is when nonsurgical treatment has not helped. Nonsurgical treatment includes rest, physical therapy, and medicines or shots that reduce inflammation. Common arthroscopic procedures include rotator cuff repair, removal or repair of the labrum, and repair of ligaments. They also include repair for a shoulder that keeps dislocating. Some surgeries, such as shoulder replacement, still need open surgery with larger cuts.
How to prepare
Your surgeon may ask you to see your primary doctor first. This makes sure you have no medical problems that need care before surgery. Blood tests, an electrocardiogram, or a chest X-ray may be needed. Tell your surgeon about any medicines or supplements you take. You may need to stop some of them. Follow your surgeon's or doctor's instructions on when to arrive and when to stop eating or drinking. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night.
What happens during it
A regional nerve block may numb your shoulder and arm. Many surgeons add a light general anesthetic. This puts you to sleep. The surgeon makes a small puncture, about the size of a buttonhole, for the arthroscope. Fluid flows through the arthroscope to keep the view clear and control bleeding. Other small tools go in through separate cuts to treat the problem. The cuts are closed with stitches or steri-strips. A large, soft bandage covers them. Most arthroscopic procedures take less than 2 hours. Sometimes arthroscopy alone cannot treat the problem. Then open surgery may be done.
Recovery
If you are generally healthy, you will most likely go home the same day. You will stay in the recovery room for 1 to 2 hours first. Expect some pain and discomfort for several weeks. Ice helps relieve pain and swelling. Opioids, strong pain medicines, can be addictive and dangerous. Use them only as directed by your doctor. You will most likely need a sling or special immobilizer to protect your shoulder. An exercise program helps you regain shoulder strength and motion. After a minor repair, you may return to work or school within a few days. Full recovery may take several months if there is a lot of damage.
Risks and side effects
Most people do not have complications from shoulder arthroscopy. Possible problems include infection, too much bleeding, blood clots, and damage to blood vessels or nerves. These problems are usually minor and treatable. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop or breathing problems. Chest pain or discomfort lasting for two minutes or more is also a warning sign of an emergency. So are fainting or loss of consciousness.
Who performs it
An orthopedic surgeon performs the surgery. A member of the anesthesia staff talks with you about anesthesia options. A physical therapist may supervise your exercises after a more complicated repair.
Common questions
Is shoulder arthroscopy done as an outpatient procedure?
Yes, if you are generally healthy, it will most likely be an outpatient procedure. This means you will not need to stay overnight at the hospital.
How long does shoulder arthroscopy take?
Most arthroscopic procedures take less than 2 hours. The time depends on what your surgeon finds and what repairs are needed.
How long does recovery take?
It may take weeks to months for your shoulder to recover completely. Recovery time is different for everyone.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Your surgeon may ask you to see your primary doctor to check for medical problems before surgery.
Sources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Shoulder Arthroscopy
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Arthroscopy
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
