Shoulder and Elbow

Specialists in shoulder and elbow surgery

The Shoulder and Elbow Unit at Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting these joints, using both conservative techniques and advanced reconstructive surgery.

It treats patients with traumatic injuries, degenerative conditions and neuromuscular disorders that compromise the mobility, stability and functional strength of the upper limb.

The shoulder and elbow have complex biomechanics that require precise diagnosis, rigorous therapeutic management and individualised planning, particularly in patients with high functional demands or when reconstructive surgery is necessary.

Shoulder conditions we treat

The unit treats a range of shoulder injuries and conditions that can affect mobility, joint stability and arm strength. Among the most common conditions are rotator cuff tears, glenohumeral instability, glenohumeral and acromioclavicular dislocations, shoulder osteoarthritis, proximal humerus fractures and injuries to the long head of the biceps tendon.

The treatment plan is determined following an individualised assessment that analyses the severity of the injury, the patient’s age, their activity level and the condition of the affected tissues.

In many cases, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery is used, which allows intra-articular injuries to be treated with less invasive surgery and provides precise visualisation of the anatomical structures.

Where there is advanced joint degeneration, shoulder arthroplasty may be indicated; its three-dimensional planning allows for optimisation of prosthesis placement and a more precise restoration of the joint’s biomechanical axis.

Specialist treatment for the elbow

In the field of elbow conditions, the unit treats:

• Refractory epicondylitis and epitrochleitis

• Ligament tears

• Elbow instability

• Complex fractures

• Primary or post-traumatic osteoarthritis

Arthroscopic techniques and ligament reconstruction or osteosynthesis procedures are used where indicated. In selected cases, elbow arthroplasty is performed with specific planning to restore mobility and stability.

Neuromuscular surgery and nerve release

The unit has expertise in peripheral nerve decompression surgery, including the ulnar, suprascapular and radial nerves, as well as in the treatment of complex brachial plexus injuries.

Depending on the mechanism of compression and the anatomical location, either open or endoscopic techniques are used.

In cases of advanced neuromuscular deficits, muscle transfers — such as the latissimus dorsi, lower trapezius or pectoralis major — may be performed with the aim of restoring active shoulder function.

Biological therapies and advanced planning

In selected tendon injuries or in the early stages of degenerative processes, biological therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can be incorporated into a structured treatment plan.

Advanced surgical planning using digital systems and three-dimensional models makes it possible to anticipate anatomical reconstruction and improve intraoperative precision in complex procedures.

Clinical diagnosis and functional recovery

The process begins with a detailed clinical examination that assesses active and passive range of motion, stability, strength and pain patterns. This is supplemented by X-rays, musculoskeletal ultrasound or MRI, as indicated.

The treatment strategy is tailored to the patient’s age, comorbidities, functional requirements and realistic expectations regarding recovery. Surgery is indicated when conservative treatment fails to restore adequate function.

Following surgery or during conservative treatment, a coordinated rehabilitation programme is put in place to restore joint range of motion, strength and muscle control.

Regular clinical follow-up allows for the assessment of prosthesis integration, bone union or tendon healing, with functional progression adjusted according to the patient’s individual progress.

Surgical expertise and ongoing support

The unit comprises specialists with a specific focus on shoulder and elbow surgery and experience in advanced arthroscopic, reconstructive and prosthetic techniques.

During consultations, we take the time needed to clearly explain the nature of the injury, the available treatment options and the expected functional outcome. We detail the risks, recovery times and possible limitations before any procedure, to help you make an informed and shared decision.

Clinical support is provided from the initial assessment right through to functional recovery, with scheduled follow-up appointments that allow treatment to be adapted as the patient progresses.

Coordination between the unit and other specialities ensures continuity of care and consistency at every stage of the treatment process.