Avoiding complications in arthroscopic subacromial space and instability surgery

Abstract

Complications during shoulder arthroscopy are very uncommon. Advanced techniques such as labral stabilization and cuff repair, however, have associated high learning curves and recognized pitfalls. Common complications are either procedure specific, such as recurrent instability or cuff tear, or unrelated to the particular procedure, including bleeding, fluid extravasation, implant problem, or iatrogenic articular injury. Most complications can be avoided through careful preoperative planning, judicious patient selection, thorough understanding of normal and variational arthroscopic anatomy, attention to surgical detail, and commitment to development of arthroscopic motor skills.