Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

What is Shoulder and Elbow Surgery and What Diseases Does It Cover?

Shoulder and elbow surgery is a highly specialized branch of surgery in the field of orthopedics and traumatology, which involves the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders related to the joints, muscles and tendons in these areas. This surgical discipline covers a wide range of diseases, including both sports injuries and age-related degenerative diseases, and offers treatment options to help patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life.

What is Shoulder and Elbow Surgery?

Shoulder and elbow surgery is a branch of orthopedics that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of injuries, diseases, and deformities related to the shoulder and elbow joints. This surgical field covers many different conditions, including sports injuries, age-related degenerative diseases, and traumatic injuries. Shoulder and elbow surgery aims to improve patients' quality of life, reduce pain, and regain mobility.

What Diseases Are Covered by Shoulder and Elbow Surgery?

Shoulder and elbow surgery is a surgical field that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders that occur in the shoulder and elbow joints. This surgical field covers a wide range of diseases, from sports injuries to degenerative joint diseases, fractures to tendon tears. Shoulder and elbow surgery includes a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatment methods that aim to improve the quality of life of patients, preserve joint function and reduce pain.

Diseases Within the Scope of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

• Shoulder Prosthesis: In advanced arthritis cases, joint prosthesis is applied to relieve pain and increase joint mobility.
• Rotator Cuff Tears: Surgical repair is performed in cases where the shoulder muscles and tendons are torn.
• Instability and Sports Injuries: Surgical interventions are performed for the treatment of shoulder dislocations and sports injuries.
• Fractures and Other Injuries: Fractures and other traumas occurring in the shoulder area are treated.
• Joint Protection for Arthritis: Various treatment methods are used to slow the progression of arthritis and preserve joint function.
• Scapular Disorders: Treatment of structural and functional disorders related to the scapula.

• Elbow Prosthesis: Prosthesis application is performed in advanced arthritis and other joint damage.
• Elbow Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgical techniques are used to diagnose and treat problems within the elbow joint.
• Sports Injuries: Sports injuries occurring in the elbow area are treated with surgical intervention.
• Fractures and Other Injuries: Surgical treatment of elbow fractures and traumas is performed.

When to See a Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon?

It is recommended to see a shoulder and elbow surgeon when symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, limited movement, weakness or loss of function of the joint are felt in the shoulder or elbow. Such symptoms may indicate a serious underlying orthopedic problem and early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance in preventing complications. In addition, athletes, individuals who do heavy physical activity and the elderly are at greater risk of such symptoms, so regular check-ups may be beneficial.

Can People of All Ages Undergo Shoulder and Elbow Surgery?

Yes, shoulder and elbow surgery can be a suitable treatment option for patients of all ages. While younger age groups usually require surgical intervention due to sports injuries and traumatic damage, older patients may require surgical treatment due to conditions such as degenerative diseases and arthritis. Surgeons create the most appropriate treatment plan by considering the patient's age, general health status and the specific nature of the disease.

How is Examination Performed in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery?

In shoulder and elbow surgery, the examination begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. The surgeon evaluates the range of motion, muscle strength, and pain levels of the joints. If necessary, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds are used to further examine the condition of the joints. This process is critical to making a correct diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Methods Used in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

Treatment methods used in shoulder and elbow surgery vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Conservative treatment options include physical therapy, medication, and injections, while surgical treatment options include arthroscopy, tendon repairs, prosthetic applications, and reconstructive surgeries. Surgeons aim to achieve the best results by choosing the most appropriate treatment method for the individual needs of patients.