Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique for examining joint damage. During shoulder arthroscopy, an orthopedic surgeon makes a small incision near the damaged shoulder joint, and inserts a small tool with a camera on the end. The surgical team can then survey the joint damage on a large monitor in the operating room. Shoulder arthroscopy is indicated for patients who have broken or deteriorated joints due to arthritis or injury. Either during or after the procedure, the doctor can repair the joint damage. Shoulder arthroscopy costs about $26,000 in the US, and around £13,000 in the UK. Abroad, orthopedic surgeons can perform this operation for much less.

In Mexico, Argentina, and Costa Rica, shoulder arthroscopy costs between $2,700 and $3,300, or between £1,800 and £2,200. Doctors in Latin America study in some of the best medical schools in the US and Europe, and hospitals are equipped with the latest instruments and imaging devices. Before surgery, the doctor will examine the shoulder joint from the outside to determine where to make the small incision. During the procedure, which lasts one to two hours, the surgeon will thoroughly examine the joint and fix the damage, if possible. Otherwise, the patient can schedule traditional repair surgery after the shoulder arthroscopy. Latin America is a top destination for shoulder operations, including rotator cuff repair and prosthetics. Patients are attended by compassionate nurses and doctors who speak English and work hard to provide the best care.