Arthroscopic Capsular Release

The operation aims to reduce the recovery time by freeing the joint to gain full range of movement and reduce pain.

This is keyhole surgery where the tight capsule of the joint is released with a special radio-frequency probe.

Traditionally a manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA) has been the surgery performed for Frozen Shoulder. This involves freeing the shoulder by manipulating it under a general anaesthetic. It has been an effective operation for most people with simple frozen shoulders. However, the capsular release is performed with increased precision by key hole surgery, and is called an arthroscopic capsular release. The results are successful in over 80% of patients and the freedom from pain is quicker than MUA. Arthroscopic capsular release also allows the surgeon to look around the shoulder joint with the arthroscope for any other lesions or injuries.  Capsular release is safer and more effective than MUA for people who have developed a resistant stiff (frozen) shoulder after injury, trauma or fractures, as well as for diabetics.
 

General information

• You should not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.

• You will usually only be in hospital for a day. A doctor/physiotherapist will see you before you go home and a physiotherapy outpatient appointment will arranged.

• It is essential that you attend physiotherapy in the first few weeks following your procedure. Please ensure that your employers are aware of this commitment.

Movement

It is of the utmost importance that you begin moving and exercising the arm on the day of the procedure. Adequate pain relief will enable you to perform the exercises demonstrated by the physiotherapist. Try to use the arm for normal daytime activities where possible.

 Pain

 A nerve block is used during the procedure, which means that immediately after the operation the shoulder and arm may feel numb. This may last a few hours. The shoulder will be sore when this wears off and this may last for the first few weeks. It is important that you continue to take the painkillers prescribed from the hospital. A Cryocuff or ice packs may also help reduce pain. Wrap frozen peas/crushed ice in a damp, cold towel and place on the shoulder for up to 15minutes.

 Driving

You may drive after one week.

 Returning to work

 If you have a desk job you will probably be able to return after one week. You may need slightly longer if your job involves lifting or manual work.

 Leisure activities

These will depend on the range of movement and strength in your shoulder. It is possible to do most things as long as your shoulder feels comfortable. Please discuss specific activities with your physiotherapist.

Exercises

It is essential that you carry out the exercises regularly following your procedure, ideally four to five times per day increasing as able. It is quite normal for you to experience aching, discomfort and stretching when doing the exercises but you can decrease the exercises if you experience intense or lasting pain.

Follow up appointments

 You will have a follow up appointment with the Shoulder team in outpatients about three weeks following your procedure.

 Progression

 This is variable. In the first few weeks your shoulder may be sore although your movements will have improved. Do not be surprised if the soreness affects your daily activities. You should continue to move and use your arm normally. Over the weeks following your surgery you will notice a gradual improvement in movement and pain.