Shoulder arthroscopy is performed by inserting a special instrument called an arthroscope (opens in new tab) into the shoulder (opens in new tab) through a small incision. The arthroscope is a special camera and lens that the surgeon uses to see inside the joint. He views the camera image on a television screen while he is operating. The surgeon uses another small incision to insert arthroscopic instruments (opens in new tab) inside of the joint to perform the surgery.
This page contains photographs taken during real shoulder arthroscopies. First, we will show you the normal shoulder anatomy. Next, there are photos of various injuries and conditions, followed by post-treatment photos.
You can also learn more about shoulder arthroscopy by viewing our surgery animations.
Normal Shoulder Anatomy
- Normal Rotator Cuff – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Normal Biceps Tendon – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Normal Superior Labrum – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Normal Anterior Labrum – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Normal Glenohumeral Joint – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Normal Subacromial Space – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Shoulder Injuries and Conditions
- Rotator Cuff Tear – Photo 1, Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
Superior Labral (SLAP) Tear – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2
Anterior Labral Tear – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Subacromial Spur – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Glenohumeral Joint Arthritis – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab), Photo 3 (opens in new tab)
After Surgery
- Rotator Cuff Repair – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2, Photo 3 (opens in new tab), Photo 4 (opens in new tab)
Superior Labral Repair – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Anterior Labral Repair – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Subacromial Decompression – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)