Thermal Capsulorrhaphy of the Shoulder

Overview

This surgery treats shoulder instability. That's a condition we call "loose shoulder." It's when the tissues around the shoulder joint don't give enough support. The surgery tightens these joint capsule tissues.

Preparation

To begin, you're given medicine to make you feel relaxed and numb. You may be put to sleep. We make some small openings in your skin. One is for a video camera device called an "arthroscope." It lets us see inside your shoulder. The others are for tiny instruments.

Heating the tissue

Now we tighten the joint capsule. We do this with a radiofrequency probe. It uses RF waves to heat tissue. The heat from the probe makes the tissue shrink. Different parts of the capsule are heated until it's tight enough to support the joint.

End of procedure

When it's done, your skin is closed and bandaged. After a period of healing, physical therapy will help strengthen your shoulder. Follow your care plan for a safe recovery.