Pre-operative information for patients having shoulder arthroscopy Mr. Sunil Sharma FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Advantages Quick & accurate information Can perform corrective surgery at the same time Small incision Day case procedure Few complications

Risks & Potential complications Shoulder Stiffness Failure of surgery Infection Anaesthetic complications Other possible complications

Anaesthesia General Anaesthesia Regional Anaesthesia (nerve block)

Pre-assessment clinic Past history + physical examination FBC ECG - if more than 40 years Other tests may be required depending on medical condition

Insurance information (for private patients) Check insurance requirements Check if referral needed from GP

Days before surgery Wash the shoulder Do not shave the area Protect the skin

Day before Surgery Phone up hospital and confirm time of admission Nothing to eat or drink after midnight Put up a note as a reminder

Day of Surgery Your surgeon with mark your limb and discuss the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure Your anaesthetist with discuss the anaesthetic and the post-operative pain control plan with you If you have not already signed your consent form you will at this stage

Recovery You will wake up drowsy but should not have much pain However the nerve block / local anaesthetic will wear off several hours later and the shoulder can get painful You will be given painkillers (Codeine 30 mg + Paracetamol 500 mg along with Voltarol 50 mg) before the nerve block wears off You will need a family member / friend to bring you home from hospital

At home after surgery Apply ice packs / bag of frozen peas to shoulder Change dressing / band-aids Follow rehabilitation protocol Shower after 2 days

Follow-up Follow-up in clinic will be arranged for 2 – 3 weeks after surgery for a wound check Physiotherapy if required will be arranged

Call your doctor if.. Excess pain or swelling in shoulder Fever or redness Other problems or complications