Orthopedic shoulder surgeons are specialized medical professionals who focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders of the shoulder. An orthopaedic shoulder surgeon Leawood specializes in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating injuries and conditions affecting the shoulder joint, including rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder instability, arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis.
Whether you are suffering from chronic pain or have suffered an injury, an orthopedist can help you determine the best course of treatment and get you back on track. Before you know the right surgery, your doctor must make a diagnosis. This will aid in getting the procedure that fits you. These are some of the common areas an orthopaedic shoulder surgeon specializes in:
Rotator cuff surgery
It is a procedure used to treat rotator cuff tears, a common injury in the shoulder joint. This surgery involves using sutures, anchors, and other materials to reattach the torn tendon or muscle back to the bone. It can address both partial and full tears of the rotator cuff. This surgery aims to restore strength and mobility in the shoulder joint, allowing patients to return to normal activities.
Shoulder arthroscopy
It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions. It involves inserting a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, into the shoulder joint through a small incision. This allows the surgeon to view the joint on a monitor and perform necessary repairs or treatments. By using this technique, surgeons can repair the damage with minimal tissue disruption, reducing recovery time and allowing for a faster return to normal activities.
Instability surgery
Instability surgery is a type of orthopedic procedure that is used to treat joint instability and associated pain. It is a complex procedure involving removing damaged or torn ligaments, realigning bones, and using screws, plates, and other implants to stabilize the joint. Instability surgery can help restore normal joint function and reduce pain in patients who have suffered from instability-related injuries or conditions.
Labral tear repair
It is a surgical procedure used to treat a labral tear, an injury to the labrum of the shoulder joint. This type of surgery can restore stability and range of motion in the shoulder joint and is often recommended when conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication have not been successful.
Labral tear repair involves cutting away damaged tissue, repairing any tears or fraying in the labrum, and reattaching it to the bone. Surgery can be done using open or arthroscopic techniques, depending on the severity of the injury. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the damage but typically takes several weeks before the full range of motion returns.
Shoulder joint replacement
It is a surgical procedure involving replacing a damaged or worn-out shoulder joint with an artificial one. It is a complex and delicate procedure that requires the expertise of an experienced orthopedic surgeon. The main purpose of the surgery is to reduce pain and restore mobility in the affected shoulder joint.
The procedure can treat arthritis, fractures, and other shoulder joint conditions. By replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one, patients can regain their range of motion and enjoy greater comfort.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your shoulder, it may be time to make an appointment with your orthopaedist at The Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance.