Shoulder Procedures

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows Dr. Falconer to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions using a small camera, called an arthroscope, and specialised instruments. These are inserted through tiny incisions around the shoulder, giving him a clear view of the shoulder joint without the need for a large, open incision. This technique is often used to treat conditions such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder impingement, and damaged cartilage.

Because it’s less invasive than traditional surgery, shoulder arthroscopy generally results in less pain, shorter recovery times, and minimal scarring. After the procedure, most patients can begin physical therapy within a few weeks, making it an ideal option for those who want to return to an active lifestyle as quickly as possible.

Shoulder arthroplasty, or joint replacement surgery, is designed for individuals with severe arthritis, extensive joint damage, or chronic pain that limits shoulder mobility and function. During this procedure, Dr. Falconer replaces the damaged or worn-out parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, usually made of metal and high-grade plastic, which replicate the function of a natural shoulder joint.

This surgery is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief from other treatments, such as medications, injections, or physical therapy. Joint replacement can significantly reduce pain and improve range of motion, allowing patients to return to daily activities with greater comfort and ease.

Rotator cuff repair is a procedure to mend torn or damaged rotator cuff tendons, which are essential for shoulder strength and stability. Over time, these tendons can become injured from repetitive strain, degeneration, or sudden trauma, leading to pain and limited movement. Dr. Falconer often performs this surgery arthroscopically, reattaching the torn tendons to the bone with sutures or anchors.

After rotator cuff repair, patients typically follow a specialised physical therapy plan to regain shoulder strength and flexibility. Although recovery can take several months, most patients experience substantial pain relief and restored function, enabling them to return to sports, work, and daily tasks.

Arthroscopic stabilisation or labral repair is a procedure that addresses shoulder instability or frequent dislocations by repairing the labrum—a ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket that provides stability. A torn or damaged labrum can cause the shoulder to slip out of place, resulting in pain, weakness, and an increased risk of future dislocations.

During the procedure, Dr. Falconer uses an arthroscope to visualise and repair the labrum, often by reattaching it to the socket with small anchors or sutures. Arthroscopic stabilisation is less invasive than open surgery and offers a quick recovery. This procedure is often recommended for athletes or individuals with recurring shoulder instability who wish to prevent future dislocations.

The Latarjet procedure is a specialised surgery for patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations, especially those with significant bone loss at the front of the shoulder socket. During this procedure, Dr. Falconer transfers a small piece of bone from the shoulder blade to the front of the shoulder joint. This additional bone provides greater stability to the joint, reducing the likelihood of future dislocations.

The Latarjet procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have tried other stabilisation methods without success. It’s often performed on athletes or active individuals who need a high level of stability for sports or physically demanding activities. After surgery, patients typically undergo physical therapy to restore strength and mobility, with many able to return to their sports or activities in a few months.

In a total shoulder replacement, Dr. Falconer replaces both the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint with artificial components made of metal and durable plastic. This procedure is especially helpful for patients with severe shoulder arthritis, where cartilage loss has caused intense pain, stiffness, and limited movement.

Total shoulder replacement provides significant pain relief and allows for improved shoulder function and range of motion. Many patients find that activities that were previously uncomfortable, such as reaching, lifting, or performing everyday tasks, become easier and less painful after recovery.

Reverse shoulder replacement is a type of joint replacement specifically designed for patients with massive rotator cuff tears or severe arthritis. In this procedure, the normal structure of the shoulder joint is reversed, placing the ball where the socket usually is and vice versa. This setup allows the deltoid muscle, rather than the damaged rotator cuff, to power the shoulder, providing stability and function.

This procedure is ideal for patients who may not benefit from a traditional shoulder replacement due to irreparable rotator cuff damage. Reverse shoulder replacement typically results in reduced pain, improved function, and restored independence, allowing patients to enjoy daily activities and hobbies with less discomfort.

Acromioplasty and AC joint (ACJ) resection are two procedures often used to relieve shoulder pain caused by impingement or arthritis. During an acromioplasty, Dr. Falconer removes a small part of the acromion (a bone at the top of the shoulder) to create more space for the rotator cuff tendons, reducing impingement and inflammation. AC joint resection involves removing part of the acromioclavicular joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade, to alleviate pain from arthritis or injury.

Both procedures are minimally invasive and can often be performed arthroscopically, which allows for a faster recovery. These treatments are effective in reducing pain and restoring mobility, making them a popular choice for patients with impingement syndrome or AC joint arthritis.

Fracture fixation is a surgical technique used to repair and stabilise broken shoulder bones, such as the humerus, clavicle, or scapula. Dr. Falconer uses plates, screws, or rods to hold the bones in place, allowing them to heal correctly. This procedure is essential for patients with complex fractures or those at risk of improper healing.

Fracture fixation provides stability, prevents bone misalignment, and allows patients to begin gentle movement sooner, which is crucial for restoring shoulder function. A structured physical therapy program follows to promote healing and recovery.

AC joint stabilisation and reconstruction are procedures aimed at restoring stability and function to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, often after an injury like a shoulder separation or AC joint dislocation. During stabilisation, Dr. Falconer repairs or reconstructs the ligaments that hold the joint together, sometimes using artificial grafts or sutures to restore proper alignment and stability.

These procedures are effective in reducing pain, improving shoulder strength, and preventing future joint dislocations. Patients typically follow a rehabilitation program to regain full function and can expect to return to daily activities and sports after recovery.

Latissimus dorsi and lower trapezius transfers are advanced procedures designed to restore shoulder function in patients with severe rotator cuff tears that cannot be repaired. Both techniques involve redirecting a muscle from the back to the shoulder to compensate for the damaged rotator cuff and support arm movement.

In a latissimus dorsi transfer, Dr. Falconer repurposes the latissimus dorsi muscle—a large back muscle used for pulling movements—to take over for the rotator cuff, providing strength and stability for lifting and rotating the arm. This procedure is often chosen for patients who have lost shoulder strength and need additional support for daily tasks.

The lower trapezius transfer is another option for cases where shoulder rotation is significantly impacted. Here, Dr. Falconer transfers the lower trapezius muscle from the upper back to assist with shoulder rotation and overhead movement. Both procedures are paired with a specialised rehabilitation plan to help the transferred muscle adapt to its new role. With these surgeries, patients can often regain improved shoulder function, reduce pain, and return to activities they once found difficult or impossible.