You may be able to return home the same day but if you went under a general anaesthetic you will be taken from the operating theatre to a recovery room, where you will come round under close supervision. After this, you will be taken to your room or comfortable area where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home.
While you are in hospital a physiotherapist will help you with exercises that will help speed up your recovery.
Pain relief
Your shoulder will be sore after the operation and you may have some temporary swelling.
We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.
Recovery time
You will be advised on the steps you should take to speed up your recovery before you leave the hospital and you will probably be given a series of exercises to do every day.
You should arrange to take about a week off work. The time it takes to fully recover will depend on the extent of your shoulder injuries, your level of physical fitness before the operation and how well you follow the advice of your physiotherapist.
Most people can return to work relatively quickly, but it may be longer if your job involves lifting or carrying. Follow your surgeon’s advice about going back to your usual physical activities and sports. He or she will give you detailed instructions based on your lifestyle and the outcome of your arthroscopy.
How your loved ones can help
Once you’re ready to be discharged, you’ll need to arrange a taxi, friend or family member to take you home because you won’t be able to drive. You should also ask them to help with shopping and cleaning for a few weeks.
Looking after you
We're with you every step of the way through your recovery, even after you’ve left hospital.
After your operation we will provide you with all the appropriate medication, physiotherapy exercises, advice on what you should and shouldn't do. Typically your consultant will want to see you after your treatment to see how you’re doing, a follow up appointment will be made for you before you leave the hospital. You might also be seen by a physiotherapist.
On rare occasions, complications following surgery can occur. If you experience any of these symptoms –
- the wound becomes hot, red or swollen
- the wound oozes or bleeds
- you feel unwell and have a fever or high temperature
Please don't hesitate to call us.
Your consultant will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you have any questions or concerns, we’re ready to help.
