Shoulder Arthroscopy Curriculum
Description
All those with an interest in the shoulder should develop a basic level of proficiency and should be able to perform a
thorough diagnostic exam, looking from both the anterior and the posterior portals. In addition, one should also be
able to perform simple procedures. To master arthroscopic techniques, it is important to develop a basic foundation
and then build on it in a systematic manner to advance one’s surgical technique.
Objectives
- Be familiar with the arthroscopic anatomy of the shoulder
- Practice on how to manipulate arthroscopic tools inside the shoulder safely and efficiently
- Learn the common path of a systematic examination of the shoulder
- Learn how to identify and document pathological conditions in the shoulder
- Be familiar with portals establishment technique
- Learn the tips and tricks for successful subacromial decompression procedure
- Understand the amount of bone resection required for acromioplasty
- Practice on controlling complications during subacromial decompression
Target Audience
- Orthopedic surgery residents from PGY1 through PGY3
- Practicing orthopedic surgeons with limited experience performing arthroscopic surgery
- Beginning arthroscopists
Assumptions
- The learner has little experience with arthroscopy.
- The learner has prior arthroscopic motor skills practice.
- The learner has prior anatomical knowledge of the shoulder joint and the arthroscopic portals.
Suggested Time Length
Completion of the entire course should take between 2-3 hours.
Authors
Stephen J. Snyder, MD
Southern California Orthopedic Institute
The full curriculum may be found here: