What is shoulder surgery?
A number of different types of surgery to treat shoulder problems exist. The shoulder is a complex set of joints comprising the scapula (shoulder blade), the humerus (upper arm bone) and the clavicle (collar bone). A large set of muscles and tendons assure the mobility and congruence of each of these joints.
The most common types of surgery are used to:
- Treat shoulder instability and repeated dislocations
- Repair the rotator cuff (the group of muscles and tendons that keep the humerus in the shoulder socket)
- Repair a fracture
- Treat a frozen shoulder
- Treat osteoarthritis
- Visualise the joint directly and carry out a surgical procedure during shoulder arthroscopy.
Who should I consult for shoulder surgery ?
An orthopaedic surgeon diagnoses and treats osteoarticular diseases of the shoulder. The orthopaedic surgeon can operate on the tendons, cartilage, ligaments or the head of the humerus.
More generally, an orthopaedic surgeon specialises in the musculoskeletal system, performing operations on the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves.
How are shoulder conditions diagnosed?
Shoulder conditions are diagnosed through:
- A discussion with the patient to understand the problem and the patient’s functional requirements
- A medical examination to establish the diagnosis
- Further imaging examinations (MRI, scan, ultrasound, arthroscopy, etc.) to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment for the patient.
What treatment is available for shoulder problems ?
The recommended treatment will depend on your condition and its severity. It can include shoulder replacement surgery, arthroscopic surgery, tendon surgery or shoulder instability surgery.
Preparing for your hospital stay with ELSAN in France
How can I make an appointment ?
How much does an ELSAN hospital stay cost?
How will my treatment be organised?
FAQ
How can I obtain a visa?
To obtain your visa for France, you will need to apply to the French Embassy in your country of residence. Once you have paid the care cost estimate provided by the ELSAN International Patients Department, you will be sent a letter of invitation and a certificate of payment signed by the hospital where your procedure will take place. These documents should be attached to your visa application.
What about follow-up treatment?
Depending on your personal situation, your medical team may recommend a rehabilitation hospital stay. This will be discussed with you.
How long before I can fly?
Your doctor will make specific recommendations. We suggest that you ask them to issue a Fit to Fly certificate, as depending on your medical situation, it may be necessary to respect a certain time limit in the interest of your health.
Will I be reimbursed?
For patients not covered by French health insurance, we provide an estimate of the cost of treatment. You should submit this estimate, along with your treatment plan, to your insurer to obtain their prior agreement, in accordance with your insurance policy.
In some cases insurers will pay directly (avoiding any advance payments by the policyholder) or reimburse the policyholder on proof of payment (paid invoice). This will depend on your insurance policy.