Treatment
Shoulder Surgery in London
Specialist shoulder surgery focusing on relieving pain and restoring movement
What Is Shoulder Surgery?
Shoulder surgery is an orthopaedic procedure used to repair damage to the shoulder joint, which can be caused by injury, arthritis, or other chronic conditions. The type of surgery recommended depends on the specific injury, but common procedures range from minimally invasive arthroscopy to total joint replacement.
Consultations and/or surgery would take place either in North West London or Central London, depending on which location you are seen in.
If you are looking for shoulder surgery in London, a consultation with a specialist can help establish the cause of your symptoms and whether surgery is an appropriate treatment option.
Who Requires Shoulder Surgery?
A person typically requires shoulder surgery when non-operative treatments, such as rest, physiotherapy, medication, or steroid injections, have failed to relieve significant pain, weakness, or limited range of motion. The need for surgery is highly dependent on the individual’s specific injury, lifestyle, and overall health.
Shoulder surgery may be considered for a range of conditions, including rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, labral injuries, frozen shoulder, AC joint problems and shoulder arthritis.
The decision to recommend surgery will depend on your symptoms, diagnosis and response to previous treatment.
Types of Shoulder Surgery Performed by Mr Akhtar
Mr Akhtar performs a range of shoulder procedures, with the recommended treatment based on the condition being treated.
Shoulder Arthroscopy (Subacromial Decompression)
Often called “keyhole surgery,” this minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera (arthroscope) to examine, remove tissue and repair tissue through tiny incisions. Shoulder arthroscopy can be used to treat several shoulder problems, including rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability and some other conditions affecting the joint.
If you are looking for a shoulder arthroscopy specialist near London, a consultation can help establish whether arthroscopic surgery is suitable for your condition.
Arthroscopic Stabilisation
This surgery reattaches the torn labrum that lines the socket of the shoulder, which can become detached following full or partial shoulder dislocations. Arthroscopic stabilisation may be recommended for patients with shoulder instability where the supporting structures around the joint have been damaged.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
This surgery reattaches torn rotator cuff tendons to the bone. It can be done arthroscopically or, less frequently, through an “open” incision, depending on the tear’s size and complexity. Rotator cuff tears can cause shoulder pain, weakness and difficulty moving the arm. The appropriate treatment will depend on the individual tear and your symptoms.
AC Joint Stabilisation/Excision
This procedure addresses injuries or arthritis in the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. The type of procedure recommended will depend on the nature of the AC joint problem and the symptoms it is causing.
Arthroscopic Frozen Shoulder Surgery (Arthroscopic Capsular Release)
For severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, arthroscopy can be used to release the stiff, tight shoulder capsule. The aim of the procedure is to improve movement in a shoulder affected by significant stiffness.
Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty)
This major surgery is typically reserved for severe arthritis or fractures. The damaged ball-and-socket joint is replaced with artificial components, usually made of metal and plastic. This can be an anatomic replacement, or a reverse shoulder replacement, where the artificial ball and socket are reversed.
Shoulder Conditions We Treat
Mr Akhtar assesses and treats a range of conditions affecting the shoulder, including:
Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can cause shoulder pain and weakness and may require surgical treatment depending on the severity of the tear.
SLAP Tears and Labral Tears
SLAP and labral tears affect the cartilage around the shoulder socket and can cause pain, clicking or instability.
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Problems
AC joint problems can develop following an injury or through arthritis, causing pain around the top of the shoulder.
Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder causes pain and significant stiffness, restricting movement of the shoulder.
Shoulder Ligament Injuries
Shoulder ligament injuries can affect joint stability and may occur following significant trauma or dislocation.
Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement as the joint becomes damaged.
Shoulder Instability and Recurrent Dislocation
Shoulder instability can develop when the structures supporting the joint are damaged, often following a partial or complete dislocation.
Shoulder Fractures
Shoulder fractures can occur following falls, sporting injuries or other significant trauma and may require surgery depending on the injury.
Sports-Related Shoulder Injuries
Sports-related shoulder injuries can affect the tendons, ligaments or joint and may require non-operative or surgical treatment depending on the diagnosis.
Why See Mr Akhtar for Shoulder Surgery?
Shoulder problems can have different causes, so an accurate diagnosis is important when deciding on the most appropriate treatment. If you are looking for a shoulder consultant in London, Mr Ahsan Akhtar is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist surgery, with experience in a range of shoulder procedures.
Shoulder Surgery Clinics in London
Consultations and/or surgery take place at several hospitals and clinics across Central, North West and West London.
Book an Appointment for Shoulder Surgery in London
If shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness or instability is affecting your daily life, a specialist assessment can help establish the cause of your symptoms and discuss your treatment options.
Whether you have already been diagnosed with a shoulder condition or are seeking a specialist opinion, you can arrange a consultation with Mr Akhtar at one of his London clinic locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms need urgent review?
Severe shoulder pain following a significant injury, an obvious change in the shape of the shoulder, a suspected dislocation or a sudden inability to move the arm may require urgent medical assessment.
Is private shoulder treatment available in London?
Yes. Patients seeking private shoulder surgery in London can arrange treatment through London Shoulder and Arm, with insured and self-referral patients welcome.
What happens at a shoulder surgery consultation?
Your symptoms and medical history will be discussed, followed by an examination of your shoulder and review of any relevant scans or investigations.
Is private medical insurance accepted?
Yes. Insured patients are welcome, although you should check with your insurer whether your policy covers the consultation and proposed treatment.
Can I arrange a consultation without private medical insurance?
Yes. Self-referral patients can arrange a private consultation directly without going through a private medical insurance provider.
How do I book shoulder surgery in London?
The first step is to arrange a consultation with a shoulder orthopaedic surgeon so your symptoms and diagnosis can be assessed and the appropriate treatment options discussed.
Specialising in Shoulder, Elbow, Hand & Wrist Surgery
Treatments
Clinic Locations
The Princess Grace Hospital
30 Devonshire Street, London, W1G 6PU
The Clementine Churchill Hospital
Sudbury Hill, Harrow, HA1 3RX
Syon Clinic
941 Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9DU
Chiswick Outpatients
347-353 Chiswick High Road, London, W4 4HS
