general advice
Andrew Irwin, FRCS Ed, FRCS Ed (Orthopaedics), Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon
If you have your operation at Spire Hospital, Harpenden, you may request photographs or a DVD recording of the procedure. With any surgical procedure, let pain be your guide. If whatever you are doing hurts (eg exercises or returning to sport), then STOP, rest and only then start again, more slowly. In the unlikely event of your wound changing in appearance or you feeling unwell with a raised temperature, you should contact the ward at the hospital where you had your operation.
shoulder arthroscopic procedures
Andrew Irwin . FRCS (Ed), FRCS Orth
- You will usually be in hospital either for a day or overnight.
- A doctor/physiotherapist will see you prior to discharge and you will be given appropriate advice regarding exercises.
- Occasionally it will be necessary to wear a sling post operatively.
- Every procedure is different and you will be discharged with specific advice for the use of the sling.
returning to work
Andrew Irwin . FRCS (Ed), FRCS Orth
This will depend on your occupation and the complexity of the operation. If you work in an office, you may return as soon as you feel able. If your job involves heavy lifting or using your arm above shoulder height, you can return to work limiting your activities until your shoulder feels comfortable enough for heavier duties.