Complications of shoulder arthroscopy.

Shoulder arthroscopy has become a popular therapeutic and diagnostic procedure during the past decade. As with all new procedures, complications can occur. The highest complication rate (3.2%) was noted with staple capsulorrhaphy, and recurrence is more likely than with open repairs. Subacromial space procedures are safe, with a very low complication rate of less than 1%; short-term results are favorable. Proper patient selection and attention to technical considerations will decrease the incidence of complications. Careful positioning of the patient and the extremity lessens the potential of pressure and traction neuropraxias. Electrosurgical instruments plus adequate distension pressure help minimize intraoperative bleeding, thus improving visualization. Infection rates have been low, ranging from .04% to 3.4%.