Shoulder Arthroscopy and Anaesthesia
Traditionally, shoulder surgery was performed under general anaesthesia. Advances in medical technology now allow surgeons to perform many types of surgical procedures under regional anaesthesia. Orthopaedic surgeon Andreas Leonidou, in collaboration with his specialised anaesthesiologist, offers the awake shoulder surgery service, meaning shoulder arthroscopy with the patient awake. Regional anaesthesia techniques are increasingly being adopted in everyday clinical practice, as they offer multiple benefits.
What is regional anaesthesia in shoulder arthroscopy?
Regional anaesthesia is anaesthesia applied to only one “region” of the body and, in this specific case, to the shoulder – upper limb. The anaesthesiologist injects a local anaesthetic around the nerves that transmit the sensation of pain to the brain. More specifically, an ultrasound-guided interscalene block is administered, allowing even greater precision in regional nerve blocks. This anaesthesia lasts for 12–24 hours and allows the procedure to be performed completely pain-free.
Shoulder Arthroscopy with the Patient Awake?
Regional anaesthesia eliminates acute postoperative pain and also gives the patient the option of undergoing shoulder arthroscopy while fully awake – that is, without general anaesthesia or sedation (awake shoulder surgery protocol). During surgery, the patient remains awake and, if they wish, can watch the procedure on the special monitor available in the operating theatre. Alternatively, the patient may choose regional anaesthesia combined with light general anaesthesia / sedation.
Importance of the Surgeon’s Expertise
Shoulder arthroscopy with the patient fully awake requires an experienced surgeon with a high patient volume. The surgeon should be able to perform the operation to a high standard within a reasonable timeframe while simultaneously explaining to the patient what is being done.
What are the advantages of regional anaesthesia in arthroscopy?
The advantages of regional anaesthesia include:
- Avoidance of potential risks and side effects associated with general anaesthesia / sedation
- Safer option for patients with underlying medical conditions
- Absence of postoperative pain
- Faster recovery
- No hospitalisation
- Better postoperative rehabilitation
In general, regional anaesthesia is considered the safest anaesthetic technique. Before shoulder arthroscopy, the anaesthesiologist from Mr. Leonidou’s team will provide you with the necessary guidance and instructions. The anaesthesiologist specialises in the management of high-risk surgical patients and is certified in regional anaesthesia.
If you also suffer from a shoulder condition, consult the specialist orthopaedic surgeon Mr. Andreas Leonidou. The doctor has 14 years of successful continuous experience abroad and specialises in shoulder surgery.
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