When does one need an operation? | Therapy of the impingement syndrome

When does one need an operation?

An operation for impingement is necessary if the so-called conservative therapies (drug, physiotherapeutic and other treatment methods) are not successful and the pain persists. The time until the conservative therapy attempts are described as “unsuccessful” is usually between 3-4 months. The surgical method can then be minimally invasive – i.e. with small incisions – arthroscopic or rarely open.

Which surgical method is chosen depends on the existing damage in the shoulder. In general, however, the spontaneous healing of the impingement often makes one very hesitant to treat it surgically. In general, complications rarely occur during surgical intervention on the shoulder.

Since the procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, there are risks of anesthesia such as nausea, vomiting or allergic reaction to medication.However, these are also relatively rare and depend on the patient’s previous illnesses. In addition, wound healing disorders and infections at the incisions or in the shoulder can occur. However, since great care is taken to keep the devices clean, infections occur only rarely.

There can also be injuries to vessels with subsequent bleeding or damage to nerves with permanent sensory disturbances or failures. You can read more information on the topic of impingement syndrome surgery here.