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2026 Guide

Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery Guide

Complete guide to shoulder arthroscopy — costs, recovery timeline, success rates, and how to find the right surgeon.

What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy uses a small camera (arthroscope) and miniature instruments inserted through 3-4 tiny incisions (5mm each) to diagnose and treat shoulder problems. The camera projects magnified images onto a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint in detail. It is one of the most versatile orthopedic procedures — treating everything from rotator cuff tears to frozen shoulder to bone spurs.

Conditions Treated

• Rotator cuff tears (repair or debridement)
• Labral tears (Bankart repair, SLAP repair)
• Subacromial impingement and bone spurs
• Frozen shoulder (capsular release)
• Biceps tendon tears or inflammation
• Loose bodies (cartilage fragments)
• Shoulder instability (tightening of capsule)
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis
• Infection (joint washout)

Cost

Shoulder arthroscopy costs $3,500 to $15,000 before insurance. Cost varies widely based on what is done during the procedure — a simple diagnostic scope is less expensive than a rotator cuff repair.

Recovery

Recovery depends entirely on what is treated:
• Bone spur removal/debridement: 2-4 weeks
• Loose body removal: 1-2 weeks
• Capsular release (frozen shoulder): 6-12 weeks
• Labrum repair: 4-6 months
• Rotator cuff repair: 4-6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shoulder arthroscopy painful?
The surgery is done under anesthesia with a nerve block that numbs the shoulder for 12-24 hours. Post-operative pain is typically managed with ice and over-the-counter medications. Most patients report mild-to-moderate discomfort.
How long does shoulder arthroscopy take?
The surgery takes 30-90 minutes depending on what is found and treated. Plan for 3-4 hours at the surgery center including prep and recovery.
Can I go home the same day?
Yes. Nearly all shoulder arthroscopies are outpatient — you go home within a few hours of surgery.

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