Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery in Hilo, HI
Shoulder pain can make it hard to reach overhead, lift, sleep, or play the sports you love. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura performs arthroscopic shoulder surgery in Hilo, HI to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations and instability, arthritis, and impingement. This minimally invasive approach uses small incisions and a tiny camera, which often means less pain and a smoother recovery than traditional open surgery.
What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
During arthroscopy, Dr. Matsuura inserts a small camera called an arthroscope into the shoulder joint through a tiny incision. The camera displays a magnified view of the joint on a monitor, allowing him to diagnose and repair damaged tissue using specialized instruments placed through other small incisions. Because the surrounding muscles are disturbed less than in open surgery, many patients experience less post-operative pain and stiffness.
Shoulder Conditions Treated Arthroscopically
- Rotator cuff tears – repairing torn tendons that help lift and rotate the arm
- Shoulder dislocations and instability – tightening or repairing the labrum and ligaments so the shoulder stays in place
- Impingement – creating more space for the rotator cuff tendons to glide without pinching
- Arthritis – removing loose fragments and inflamed tissue to improve comfort and motion
- Bursitis – removing an inflamed bursa as part of an arthroscopic bursectomy
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy Right for You?
Many shoulder problems improve with conservative treatment, including rest, activity modification, joint injections, and guided exercises. Arthroscopic surgery may be recommended if your pain and weakness continue despite these treatments, if you have a significant tendon tear, or if your shoulder repeatedly dislocates. Athletes who throw or play overhead sports often benefit from repair to return to full performance. For advanced arthritis, a total shoulder replacement may be the better long-term option.
Recovery After Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder arthroscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure through Hilo Community Surgical Center or Hilo Medical Center. Most patients wear a sling for a period of time to protect the repair, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore motion and strength. Recovery time depends on the procedure, with larger repairs such as rotator cuff surgery requiring several months to fully heal.
Watch our shoulder pain education video to learn more:
To schedule a shoulder evaluation, call (808) 969-3331 or learn more about our orthopaedic services.
Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery FAQs
What is arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions to diagnose and repair problems inside the shoulder joint.
What conditions can shoulder arthroscopy treat?
It can treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability and dislocations, impingement, labral tears, bursitis, and some types of arthritis.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
Most shoulder arthroscopy procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, so patients typically go home the same day.
How long will I wear a sling?
The length of time depends on the procedure. Rotator cuff repairs often require a sling for several weeks to protect the repair.
How long does it take to recover from rotator cuff surgery?
Full recovery from rotator cuff repair often takes several months, and a guided rehabilitation program is important for the best outcome.
Can a torn rotator cuff heal without surgery?
Some partial tears and degenerative tears improve with conservative care, but many full-thickness tears require surgical repair to restore strength.
When can I return to sports after shoulder surgery?
Return to sports depends on the procedure and your progress in rehabilitation. Dr. Matsuura will guide you on when it is safe to resume activity.