The Effect of the Shoulder Arthroscopic Surgery on Respiratory Mechanics

During shoulder arthroscopic surgery, extravasation of irrigation fluid can occur around the shoulder and trachea, compressing the upper airway. Although the extravasation is generally reabsorbed asymptomatically within 12 hours, there are cases that lead to reintubation or life-threatening complications. Furthermore, the soft tissue edema around the shoulder may extend to the thoracic cage, compress the chest and induce the respiratory distress immediately after surgery. The investigators attempt to determine the effect of shoulder arthroscopic surgery on respiratory mechanics. Changes in respiratory mechanics and arterial blood gases were measured and compared before and after the shoulder arthroscopic surgery.