Sling
Wear your sling at all times after your surgery (this includes sleeping). Additionally, you should not carry anything heavier than a pencil in your hand.
Showering
You may shower 48 hours after surgery. Please use CAUTION!! Be careful not to slip and fall. The effects of anesthesia and/or medication may make you drowsy or light-headed. Do not soak in a bathtub, hot tub, or pool until the doctor tells you it is O.K. to do so. Once you are done showering pat the wound dry and apply a Band-Aid. While in the shower you must keep the arm across the front of the body as if it were still in the sling.
Sleeping
You will most likely have difficulty sleeping in the first few weeks after surgery. Most people find it more comfortable to sleep in a reclining position. You can either sleep in a recliner chair or create this position with pillows.
Dressing
Remove all cotton and yellow gauze 48 hours after your surgery. You do not need to put a new dressing on your wound; place Band-Aids on your wound.
Ice
You can ice the shoulder to reduce swelling and discomfort. Do not ice the shoulder more than 20 minutes at a time. Let the shoulder warm up before reapplication. Avoid getting your wound wet. If you have an Gameready/cryocuff you may keep this on as instructed by the manufacturer.
Follow-up visit
You need to see the doctor about one week following surgery for your first post-op visit. At that time your sutures (stitches) will be removed. You will be given a prescription to begin exercises.
Common Concerns
Bruising and/or swelling of the shoulder, arm, or hand are common after surgery. To relieve this discomfort it is best to ice the shoulder.
Please call if:
- Any oozing or redness of the wound, fevers (>101.3oF), or chills.
- Any difficulty breathing or heaviness in the chest.
Postoperative Instructions
Click here to download Printable Version of Arthroscopic Shoulder Repair