Dr Christoforetti specializes in complete care of shoulder injuries with a focus on arthroscopic techniques.  Some of the more common reasons patients undergo shoulder surgery are summarized below

Impingement Sugery

The ball and socket joint of the shoulder is surrounded by a fluid-filled sack called a "bursa."  Breakdowns in the function of the shoulder can lead to inflammation of this sack called "bursitis." 

Traditionally, the term used to describe this condition has been "impingement syndrome."  Impingement syndrome is thought by most to be caused by conflict between the rotator cuff and the bone above it.  This conflict can be associated with bone spurs, tendinitis in the biceps, and pain.

Most patients with this problem can successfully be helped by skilled shoulder reconditioning in the hands of an experienced therapist.  Steroid injections are also frequently administered to reduce inflammation.

Rarely, this condition requires surgery for resolution of bursitis and removal of offending bone spurs.  If you have been diagnosed with impingement syndrome and would like consultation regarding your options for treatment, contact Dr Christoforetti!

Rotator Cuff Surgery

The sleeve of tendons that attach the ball of the shoulder to the shoulder blade are known as the "rotator cuff."  Tears of the rotator cuff are common in middle aged patients and can be associated with pain and weakness of the shoulder.

Medical research shows that full thickness tears in the rotator cuff have a high likelihood of increasing in size over time.  They can even progress to the point of becoming too large to repair.  If this occurs, weakness, pain and even arthritis may occur.

Most experienced shoulder specialists recommend surgery to repair torn rotator cuffs.  This can be done with an open or arthroscopic technique.  Although the best medical evidence has yet to support the superiority of arthroscopic repair, many surgeons and patients agree that this technique is the way of the future.

Recovery following rotator cuff surgery requires a strong commitment to rehabilitation with an experienced shoulder therapist.  Dr Christoforetti works with select therapists in the Pittsburgh area and strives to direct the most current and effective rehab protocols.

If you have been diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear and are interested in a consultation, please contact Dr Christoforetti!

Shoulder Instability Surgery

The shoulder joint has been likened to a golf ball on a tee in that a small amount of bone contact is present to maintain the proper "ball in socket" relationship.  A rim of cartilage surrounds the socket called the labrum and helps to keep the joint in place. 

Tears in the labrum cartilage or surrounding ligaments can render the shoulder unstable in one or more directions.  This can be a painful and disabling problem for patients and may require surgical treatment.

In addition, high perfomance athletes may experience small amounts of instability known as "microinstability" as a result of a breakdown in their throwing arm mechanics.  This can lead to pain and inability to perform at the highest level possible.

When conservative treatments such as physical therapy and steroid injections fail to relieve symptoms, surgery may be required.

Arthroscopic techniques are available to assist in stabilizing the shoulder while avoiding disruption of the large muscles surrounding the joint.  If you have been diagnosed with shoulder instability and would like consultation, please contact Dr Christoforetti!

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Arthritis of the shoulder can be a result of injury or chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.  When conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and steroid injections have failed, shoulder replacement surgery can provide complete and lasting relief of pain.

The techniques for performing shoulder replacement are different from those of hip and knee replacement, and require special skill and training.  Some factors such as the function of the rotator cuff are also important in selecting the right type of replacement for each patient.

Partial shoulder replacement, conventional total shoulder replacement, and reverse total shoulder replacement should all be considered for patients prior to surgery.

If you have been diagnosed with arthritis of your shoulder please contact Dr Christoforetti for consultation!