[Arthroscopy of the shoulder]

Arthroscopy of the shoulder is currently gaining importance because of the diagnostic aid it can provide to understand the pathology of this complex joint, and also because of the technical possibilities it offers for treatment. From a diagnostic point of view, it has allowed, for example, a better understanding of the anatomical lesions observed in instability, or a better analysis of partial rotator cuff lesions. The therapeutic possibilities are the reason for the current enthusiasm for this endoscopic technique: removal of a foreign body, articular washing, synovectomy, ligament reinsertion of abrasion are now accessible with some training. The two indications of shoulder arthroscopy that are most resorted to are the endoscopic treatment of some cases of shoulder instability with reinsertion of disinserted elements at the anterior capsular-ligamentous level, and anterosuperior decompression of the rotator cuff when there is a conflict between this tendinous area and the acromiocoracoid osteoligamentous dome.