Name of the Procedure:

Anesthesia for Diagnostic Arthroscopic Procedures of Shoulder Joint

Summary

In this procedure, anesthesia is administered to allow a doctor to perform an arthroscopic examination of the shoulder joint. This minimally invasive diagnostic technique involves using a camera and specialized instruments to assess joint issues.

Purpose

Primarily used to diagnose and evaluate shoulder joint problems such as tears, inflammation, or damage to the cartilage, ligaments, or other structures. The key goal is accurate diagnosis to inform appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Persistent shoulder pain not responding to conservative treatments
• Suspected rotator cuff tears
• Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Unexplained shoulder swelling
• Previous shoulder injury or surgery requiring evaluation

Preparation

• Fast for at least 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.
• Adjust medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Complete necessary blood tests or imaging studies, if requested.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-procedure: The anesthesiologist reviews medical history and current medications, ensuring proper patient consent.
2. Anesthesia Administration: General anesthesia or regional nerve block is given.
3. Arthroscopic Examination: Small incisions are made around the shoulder to insert the arthroscope and instruments.
4. Visualization & Diagnosis: The surgeon inspects the shoulder joint, possibly taking tissue samples.
5. Completion: Incisions are closed, and the patient is moved to recovery.

Equipment used includes an arthroscope, camera, light source, and specialized small surgical instruments.

Duration

Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bruising, swelling, or mild pain around the incision sites.
• Rare: Anesthesia reaction, infection, nerve damage, or blood clots.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of shoulder conditions
• Minimally invasive with smaller incisions and quicker recovery
• Real-time visual assessment aiding targeted treatments

Recovery

• Rest and ice the shoulder as instructed.
• Follow prescribed pain management plan.
• Activity restrictions, usually for 1-2 weeks.
• Physical therapy may be recommended for rehabilitation.

Alternatives

• MRI or CT scan for imaging alternative.
• Ultrasound for tissue evaluation.
• Each has its pros and cons such as no surgical risk but less direct visualization.

Patient Experience

The patient will be sedated and should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-procedure discomfort is manageable with medication, and typical post-surgical pain should subside within a few days. Comfort measures include ice packs and rest.