Preparing for Minor Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder arthroscopy, debridement, distal clavicle excision
Outpatient arthroscopic shoulder procedures with early motion. You'll wear a sling briefly for comfort.
Have These at Home Before Surgery
Set these up ahead of time so they're waiting for you when you get home.
Ice system
Gel packs or a cold therapy machine with a shoulder wrap for swelling and pain control.
Shop on AmazonPost-op bandage supplies
Sterile gauze and waterproof adhesive dressings for the small arthroscopy incisions.
Shop on AmazonPain medications
Fill prescriptions BEFORE surgery day so they're waiting at home.
Prescription pain medication must be filled at your pharmacy — it cannot be purchased online.
Bring These on Surgery Day
Pack these the night before and bring them to the surgery center.
Arm sling
A padded sling for comfort in the first days. If our office provides one, you don't need to buy your own — check your pre-op instructions.
Shop on AmazonButton-up or zip-front shirt
Front-opening shirts are far easier than pullovers with a sore shoulder.
Set Up Physical Therapy
Schedule your first physical therapy visit before your surgery date — therapy typically starts within the first week after surgery. Enter your ZIP code to find a PT provider we recommend near you.
PT Directory Coming Soon
We're building our directory of preferred physical therapy providers. In the meantime, call our team at 410-268-4717 and we'll recommend a PT practice near you for your procedure.
Optional — Nice to Have
Not required, but many patients find these make recovery more comfortable.
Wedge pillow
Many patients sleep better semi-upright the first weeks after shoulder surgery.
Shop on AmazonThis is general guidance for our practice's most common procedures. Your specific instructions from Dr. Petre's team always take priority. Questions? Call our clinical line at 410-268-4717.