Discuss shoulder arthroscopy with Dr. Mesut Sançmış, an orthopaedics and traumatology specialist in Antalya. Explore keyhole treatment for selected tendon and joint problems.
Shoulder arthroscopy allows the surgeon to examine and treat tissues inside and around the shoulder joint through small incisions. A camera provides a magnified view, while separate instruments carry out the planned procedure.
The technique can be used for tendon repair, stabilisation and selected treatments for stiffness or damaged tissue.
Arthroscopy does not describe one standard operation. The difference between removing a loose fragment and repairing a torn tendon is more important to recovery than the size of the wounds.
Problems That May Be Treated Arthroscopically
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff helps lift and rotate the arm while supporting the shoulder joint. A repairable tear may be reattached to the bone using sutures and small anchors.
The tear's size, tissue quality and effects on strength influence treatment. Not every tear requires surgery, and not every large tear can be repaired in the same way.
Labral Tears and Shoulder Instability
The labrum forms a rim around the shoulder socket. Damage to this structure and the attached capsule can contribute to repeated slipping or dislocation.
Arthroscopic repair may restore the soft-tissue support in selected cases. Significant bone loss can require a different stabilisation procedure rather than a soft-tissue repair alone.
Frozen Shoulder and Restricted Movement
For selected patients with persistent frozen shoulder despite appropriate non-surgical care, arthroscopic capsular release may be considered.
This releases tightened tissue around the joint. Rehabilitation focuses on maintaining the movement gained, which differs from protecting a newly repaired tendon.
Loose Bodies and Selected Biceps Problems
Other procedures can address loose fragments, damaged joint lining or a symptomatic biceps tendon. The exact treatment depends on the diagnosis and may involve a combination of arthroscopic and open techniques.
When Is Surgery Unlikely to Help?
Many shoulder conditions improve with exercise-based treatment, activity adjustments and appropriate pain management.
Persistent subacromial pain does not automatically justify an operation to create more space above the rotator cuff. Trials have not shown meaningful additional benefit from decompression alone over placebo surgery for this problem.
This finding is different from the evidence for repairing a suitable tendon tear or treating recurrent instability. The proposed procedure should address a clearly identified condition rather than shoulder pain in general.
Assessment Before Shoulder Arthroscopy
The clinician checks active and assisted movement, strength, stability and the activities that trigger symptoms. Neck problems and nerve-related pain may also need consideration.
X-rays assess bone and joint changes. Ultrasound or MRI can investigate the rotator cuff, while additional imaging may be used for labral injuries or bone loss.
Describe how the problem affects sleep, work and everyday use of the arm. Imaging findings should be interpreted alongside these practical limitations.
How the Procedure Is Performed
Shoulder arthroscopy commonly uses general anaesthesia, a regional nerve block or both. The arm is positioned to allow access to the required area.
The surgeon introduces the camera and instruments through small openings and uses sterile fluid to improve visibility. Sutures and anchors may be needed for tendon or labral repair.
Some problems require an additional incision or an open operation. Before surgery, discuss which treatments are planned and what alternatives may become necessary based on the findings.
Discharge arrangements depend on the procedure, pain control and your overall condition.
Preparing for Early Recovery
Arrange help with dressing, food preparation and household tasks when a sling or restricted arm use is expected.
Tell the team about regular medicines, allergies and any previous anaesthetic problems. Medication changes and fasting instructions should come from the treating clinicians.
Ask for a written plan explaining sling use, permitted movements and when exercises begin. It should identify the actual repair rather than give generic instructions for every shoulder arthroscopy.
Recovery After Shoulder Arthroscopy
After Limited Tissue Removal
When no tendon or ligament has been repaired, movement may begin relatively early. Some people regain light daily use within weeks, although pain and stiffness can take longer to settle.
The plan still depends on the condition treated and the extent of surgery.
After Rotator Cuff or Labral Repair
Repaired tissue requires protection while it heals. A sling may be needed for several weeks, with restrictions on active lifting, reaching and loading through the arm.
Rehabilitation progresses from protected movement to active control and later strengthening. Starting resistance too soon can overload the repair.
Returning to Work and Sport
Recovery after a substantial repair takes months. Heavy lifting, overhead work and contact sport usually demand more preparation than desk-based tasks.
Clearance should consider tissue healing, strength and movement quality. A comfortable shoulder is not necessarily ready for unrestricted training.
Risks and Possible Complications
Risks include infection, stiffness, nerve or blood vessel injury, persistent weakness and failure of the repair to heal. Further tearing or instability can occur, and another operation may be required.
Report increasing wound redness, discharge, fever or pain that is worsening rather than settling. A cold hand, progressive numbness or unexpected loss of movement needs urgent assessment.
The procedure may improve useful function without restoring every movement or eliminating all discomfort.
Shoulder Arthroscopy Cost in Turkey
The estimate should name the operation rather than simply state shoulder arthroscopy. A rotator cuff repair, stabilisation procedure and capsular release involve different equipment and aftercare.
Clarify anaesthesia, repair anchors, hospital care, sling provision and physiotherapy. Ask how additional treatment and follow-up would be charged.
Share previous scans and details of injections, physiotherapy or surgery already undertaken. Confirm who will help with daily tasks while the arm is restricted.
Before returning home, obtain the operation report and rehabilitation instructions. Agree how progress will be reviewed and when travelling is appropriate.
This page provides general information. Surgical suitability and rehabilitation require individual clinical assessment.
Reviews
What Patients Say
Read reviews of Dr. Sançmış and MSM Klinik on Google, WhatClinic and Trustpilot.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank Dr Mesut Sançmış for his kind, caring and professional approach to my long term medical issues. He very efficiently examined, tested and diagnosed my medical issues and offered treatment of arthroscopic knee surgery for the following day.
The surgery was an absolute success with my original pain now gone and the procedure stiffness subsiding daily. I can already walk and sleep better and my quality of life is improving. The constant pain etched on my face and in my daily life has gone and I can never thank him enough. He is a true gentleman and 5 star surgeon.
Trustpilot
From the very beginning, I felt that I was in good hands with Dr. Mesut Sançmis . The consultation was clear, supportive, and reassuring, which made me feel confident about moving forward. Throughout the treatment, Dr. Mesut Sançmis showed great care and professionalism, always making sure I was comfortable and informed.
The results have exceeded my expectations — my feet not only look better, but I feel more confident and at ease in my daily life. It has truly been a positive change for me, both physically and emotionally.
I am very grateful for the expertise, kindness, and attention to detail that Dr. Mesut Sançmis provided. I would gladly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for high-quality, compassionate care.
WhatClinic
The Dr was very helpful and honest and gave me my options how to go forward. Very pleased with the support. I requested injections and the Dr recommended would not help as my condition requires surgery in the near future
Google
MSM Klinik have been excellent. From the initial consultation, through the Hospital procedure and the after care absolutely fantastic. Communication about the knee procedure and the ease of making it happen with genuine concern for your welfare and recovery. Highly recommend this great Klinic. Thanks MSM
Google
I fortunately came across Dr. Mesut while researching orthopedic surgeons in Antalya after suffering a severe heel fracture in the United States. From the beginning, I was uneasy with the treatment plan proposed by my U.S. surgeon. After more than a year of being told that it was simply a “bad break” that would take time to heal, it was finally discovered that I had also severely sprained my ankle at the time of the injury, resulting in partial ligament and tendon tears that had been missed entirely.
When these tears were eventually identified, the solution I was given was ankle fusion surgery, an option that would have permanently limited my mobility. This did not sit right with me.
While in Antalya for my spouse's dental care, I had the opportunity to consult with Dr. Mesut at MSM Klinik. His team quickly arranged comprehensive testing to fully understand what was happening with my foot. Dr. Mesut confirmed the ligament and tendon damage but was very clear that ankle fusion was not the appropriate solution for my case. Through my time there, it was clear to me that he treats a wide range of complex orthopedic conditions, not just ankle cases, which gave me even more confidence in his overall experience. From our first conversation, I felt confident in his expertise. He immediately recognized the complexity of my injury, especially given that my foot had healed incorrectly over the course of more than a year and a half.
After returning to the U.S. and doing further research, I made the decision to go back to Antalya and proceed with surgery under Dr. Mesut’s care. One of the major factors in my decision was his use of stem cell therapy, an option that was never even discussed by my doctors in the United States.
From start to finish, the level of professionalism and compassion at MSM Klinik was exceptional. Everyone in the office was attentive, organized, and supportive. Eli was especially wonderful, managing all logistics and providing clear translation throughout the entire process, which made everything seamless and stress free. During my stay, I also received IV vitamin and supportive therapies at the office designed to aid healing and speed recovery.
I am now just 2.5 weeks post surgery and already able to walk at approximately 50% weight bearing. In the U.S., I would have been non-weight bearing for at least two months before even beginning this stage. My recovery has been faster and smoother than I ever expected, and everything is healing remarkably well.
Trustpilot
Near Lara/speak English/top orthopedic
Top orthopedic. We needed a hand surgeon for our son who had an accident with a knife. Great Service via WhatsApp/speak English. Modern clinic. All innovative methods. State of art Equipment. Near hotels in Lara/Kundu. Also good for international tourists.
Google
I had a bit of a medical emergency during my trip to Antalya, and I'm so glad I found this clinic. They managed to squeeze me in right away and built a care program that worked perfectly with the rest of my stay. The doctor was wonderful, and having a translator there made the whole process stress-free. I felt truly well-cared for at every appointment!
WhatClinic
Dr Mesut and the team were exceptional and delivered excellent service. My issue was well investigated and management options/plans were provided. I am well satisfied with the service and happy with the outcome. Thank you again
Google
Service was excellent. I’m forever grateful to Surgeon Mesut Sancmis for taking care of me. I’m still recovering and have a follow up coming soon but I’m confident I will recover 100%. The whole staff was very attentive and professional. Starting with the driver he was so helpful and nice assisting me with my wheelchair. Amy who was with me throughout the whole process made sure all my needs and concerns were addressed. I didn’t feel there was a language barrier because she was there to translate and facilitate all my needs. Even after discharge Dr Mesut and Amy visit me multiple times to check on me and make sure everything was going well. I highly recommend them. Dr Mesut Sancmis is an awesome surgeon I’m glad I found him and if I ever need surgery again i will choose him, I highly recommend him. Thank you 🙏🏽
Google
My wife had a knee injection at MSM Klinik in Antalya in Turkey last year. She had been suffering from severe knee pain for several years and the injection really helped her regain mobility. So, we returned to MSM Klinik this year, where she has now had a second injection, which we expect will help her sustain her ability to walk at least another six months free of pain. My wife has been referred to NHS orthopedic specialists in the UK and is waiting for their diagnosis also. Waiting times are very long still in the UK, so the assistance provided by MSM Klinik in Turkey in the meantime has been extremely helpful.
WhatClinic
I visited Antalya in early May of 2025, while experiencing acute sciatica pain going down my left leg. I got in touch with MSM Klinik and had the exam scheduled promptly after talking over the phone with the staff. I had the X-rays and MRI done very promptly at Yasam Hastanesi Life Hospital. MSM Klinik staff, Mr. Mursel, took me to the hospital and was with me there while I was getting the x-rays and MRI done. Then he drove me back to the MSM Klinik where we reviewed the results with the Doctor. The Doctor appeared very knowledgeable and offered an effective treatment plan. However, it was beyond my budget. I continued to manage my back pain with NSAID.
I'm giving 5 starts for the service and promptness, but not for any medical procedure as no medical procedure was done.
The Doctor, his assistant Mr. Murcel, and the office staff were very kind, professional and attentive to my issue, which deserves a 5 star review.
The MRI, x-rays and the consultation were reasonably priced.
Google
I couldn't recommend this clinic more!
In addition to achieving my desired results, the clinic and doctor were constantly in touch with me (both in person and by phone) and responded quickly to any questions or concerns I had. This gave me peace of mind and made the process feel much easier, while giving me confidence in it.
Google
Challenging or mild conditions require the type of specific attention provided! Dr. Mesut Sancmis Ortopedi and his entire staff are highly knowledgeable and solution focused! It is incredible to witness the difference their patient care delivers. Do you have back pain, shoulder issues, orthopedic problems, here’s your source for these and MUCH more! Please don’t hesitate to book your 1st consultation to start on the path of healing!
Google
The staff / ladies at the clinic are very professional, friendly and cute,,,, nothing is too much trouble.
Dr Mesut is also very Professional and knowledgeable, and if his treatment works successfully, which i have no doubt about, I will return annually for check overs / mot.
If not I will return just once,,,, for a refund 😂🤣
Seriously he is very very good, i totally recommend him and his team and I have experienced hospitals / clinics all over the world due to my previous life racing Speedway,,,, tge racing was fine,,,, the crashes were the problem.
01 / 14
Ratings as shown on each platform on 15 October 2026. Reviews cover a range of treatments and are the opinions of individual patients.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Antalya
Ask the team about accommodation at Ramada Plaza Antalya and the arrangements relevant to your planned stay.CONFIRM: partnership
Ramada Plaza AntalyaPartner hotel · on the cliffs, next to the old town
~10 minto the clinic
On sitesea platform
~20 minfrom the airport
Distances are approximate.CONFIRM
Everything set up for recovery
Accessible roomSpace for crutches and a wheelchair
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy the Same as Shoulder Replacement?
No. Arthroscopy treats selected tissues around the existing joint. Replacement uses artificial components to address substantial joint-surface damage.
Will I Always Need a Sling?
Not for the same length of time. Sling use depends on whether tissue has been repaired, released or removed. Follow the instructions for your procedure.
Do Repair Anchors Need Removing?
They are generally intended to remain in place. Their material and design vary, and removal is not a routine part of every arthroscopic repair.
Can I Exercise as Soon as the Wounds Heal?
No. Skin healing occurs before many tendon and ligament repairs are ready for loading. Exercise progression should follow the rehabilitation plan.
