Shoulder Surgery

Every year, thousands of clients that are uninsured, under-insured or self-insured in our medical system turn to North American Surgery Inc. to have their surgeries performed close to home at or below the cost of overseas procedures. Why travel great distances and take unnecessary risks for uninsured medical procedures such as shoulder surgery when affordable alternatives exist in the US? If you need shoulder surgery, but you are uninsured, North American Surgery can help you.

Why might I need shoulder surgery?

Your shoulder is the most flexible joint in your body. Think about it – while your knee and elbow move in only one direction, your remarkable shoulder can move in almost a full circle. But this great flexibility also poses a problem – it puts your shoulder at risk of being injured.

People who are athletic (tennis and squash players, for example) are more likely to suffer from shoulder injuries. But regardless of activity, the risk of injury increases dramatically with age. As well, disease can play a role. Here is a list of the common reasons people seek shoulder surgery:

• Recurrent dislocation
• Rotator cuff tears
• Recurrent tendonitis
• Persistent bursitis
• Frozen shoulder
• Arthritis
• Fractures

How do I get a proper diagnosis for my shoulder pain?

Most commonly, doctors will recommend that you get an MRI or a CT-scan so they can get a clear and detailed picture of exactly what’s going on inside your shoulder. From time to time, however, they may suggest you have an arthroscopy. This is a minor surgery using a small device (sometimes as thin as a pencil) fitted with a camera. The camera allows the surgeon to “look” inside your shoulder and make a diagnosis. This surgery can sometimes be done on an out-patient basis, meaning you will not have to stay overnight in hospital.

What are the different surgical options for me?

Some shoulder surgeries, such as some rotator cuff repairs, can be done by arthroscopy – the small camera described above. Other surgeries, such as shoulder replacements, will require “open” surgery, meaning a lengthier surgery and a larger incision. Fractures may require fixation with sutures, pins or wires. During your consultation at the private clinic, the surgeon will describe in detail exactly what your case requires.

What are the risks of shoulder surgery?

All surgeries carry some risk, including but not limited to the risk of anesthesia, bleeding, infection and blood clots. Potential complications relating specifically to shoulder surgery may include nerve injury, stiffness, instability and tendon tears. Your surgeon is the best person to assess your risks with you and discuss how to minimize them.

How long will it take me to recover from shoulder surgery?

Your recovery time from shoulder surgery will depend both on the type of surgery you had (arthroscopic or open) and on the nature of your injury. Generally, the more complex and longstanding the problem, the longer it will take you to recover. The recovery range for shoulder surgery varies greatly – anywhere from several weeks to six months or more. You can reduce your recovery time and improve your result by faithfully following the exercise program that your doctor or physiotherapist will recommend after your shoulder surgery is complete.

What to do if you are Uninsured, Under-Insured or Self-Insured

North American Surgery Inc. acts as a facilitator, bringing our clients together with private medical clinics and hospitals that can provide the needed services and/or procedures in a timely manner and at affordable prices to the uninsured. If you are uninsured and want more information about private medical care, contact North American Surgery Inc. today.