What is Adhesive Capsulitis—Arthroscopic Surgery?

Adhesive capsulitis is a tightening in the shoulder joint. It decreases the range of motion in the shoulder and causes pain. This condition is also known as frozen shoulder . It is caused by tightening of the soft tissue and formation of scar tissue.

During this arthroscopic surgery, the doctor cuts and removes scar tissue around the shoulder. The goal of the procedure is to improve range-of-motion by breaking up scar tissue

Frozen Shoulder © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

This procedure is done to:

• Relieve pain
• Restore range of motion in the shoulder joint
• Break up scar tissue

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have arthroscopic shoulder surgery, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain
• Nerve injury
• Damage to soft tissue
• Instability or stiffness in joint
• Fracture
• Reaction to anesthesia used

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Recent or chronic illness
• Certain medicines—especially those that increase bleeding (eg, aspirin )
• Smoking or alcohol use
• Previous shoulder surgery (may cause damage)

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infections, including...