Arthroscopic Capsular Release Singapore

Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理

Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore

Appointments by prior arrangement

Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理

Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore

✔ Subspecialty Focus in Shoulder & Elbow, Sports Injuries
✔ Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
✔ Evidence-based treatment, Individualised Care

Surgical Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Dr Puah Ken Lee is a shoulder specialist in Singapore with experience in managing frozen shoulder, particularly in cases where stiffness and pain persist despite non-surgical treatment.

Arthroscopic capsular release is a minimally invasive (keyhole) surgical procedure used to improve shoulder movement by releasing the tight joint capsule.

What Is Arthroscopic Capsular Release?

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight, leading to:

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Restricted movement

Arthroscopic capsular release involves carefully releasing the tight portions of the capsule using keyhole instruments, allowing improved range of motion.

When Is Surgery Considered?

Most cases of frozen shoulder improve over time with non-surgical treatment.

Surgery may be considered when:

  • Stiffness persists despite physiotherapy
  • Pain continues to affect sleep and daily activities
  • There is slow or limited improvement over several months

→ You may also wish to read about frozen shoulder treatment

Benefits of Arthroscopic Capsular Release

  • Minimally invasive (keyhole surgery)
  • Immediate improvement in range of motion (in many cases)
  • Allows early rehabilitation
  • Targets the underlying cause of stiffness

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery typically involves:

  • Early physiotherapy to maintain range of motion
  • Gradual strengthening exercises
  • Return to daily activities over time

Active participation in rehabilitation is important for optimal outcomes.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Persistent stiffness
  • Recurrence (uncommon)

A detailed discussion will be undertaken during consultation.

Related Shoulder Treatments

Why Choose Dr Puah Ken Lee

  • Shoulder-focused orthopaedic practice
  • Experience in arthroscopic shoulder procedures
  • Individualised treatment approach
  • Located at Mount Elizabeth Novena

Dr Puah is regularly invited as faculty at regional and international meetings to teach shoulder and arthroscopic surgical techniques.

Book a Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder stiffness or have been diagnosed with frozen shoulder, a specialist assessment can help determine whether further treatment is required.

Orthopaedic conditions can affect function, performance and quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries, and patients are encouraged to seek evaluation for persistent symptoms.