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Dr. Chirag Thonse - Orthopedic surgeon in Millers Road - Manipal Hospitals

Dr. Chirag Thonse

Consultant - Orthopaedic, Joint Replacement and Arthroscopy Surgery

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Dr. Chirag Thonse - Orthopedic surgeon in Millers Road - Manipal Hospitals
Reviewed by

Dr. Chirag Thonse

Consultant - Orthopaedic, Joint Replacement and Arthroscopy Surgery

Manipal Hospitals, Millers Road

InSpace Balloon Shoulder Surgery: An Innovative Approach to Irreparable Rotator Cuff Injury

Reviewed by:

Dr. Chirag Thonse

Posted On: Jul 25, 2025
blogs read 4 Min Read
InSpace Balloon Shoulder Surgery: An Innovative Approach to Irreparable Rotator Cuff Injury

InSpace Balloon Shoulder Surgery mainly addresses rotator cuff tears. It is a minimally invasive technique and is usually recommended for elderly patients above 65 years old. The procedure entails placing a balloon-shaped spacer inside your shoulder joint, which is made of biodegradable material and contains saline. It acts as a padding between the humerus and the scapula, allowing for fluid motion, which may help decrease pain and discomfort. The spacer can dissolve in the body after a few months. With this temporary relief, your shoulder will start healing on its own.

At Manipal Hospital Millers Road, we performed the second Inspace Balloon Shoulder Surgery in India on a 70-year-old patient with an irreparable shoulder injury.

 

Why is This Surgery Needed?

InSpace Balloon Surgery is often suggested for extensive or irreparable rotator cuff tears. There can be multiple reasons for these tears:

Age-Related Degeneration

Repetitive Motion

Trauma-Induced

The shoulder tendons wear down with age. This increases the risk of tears.

Certain jobs or sports require repetitive shoulder movements. This can result in rotator cuff injuries.

 

Falls, heavy lifting, or accidents can also cause sudden and severe tears to the shoulder. 

  

There are several conventional therapies to treat rotator cuff tears—for example, fixing tendons or replacing shoulders. These procedures, however, demand extended rehabilitation for recovery. On the contrary, the InSpace Balloon is a great alternative for better surgical outcomes and is especially applicable if you are not eligible for a major surgery due to other health risks.

Advantages of InSpace Balloon Shoulder Surgery

  • Minimally Invasive: The operation uses arthroscopic techniques. This means small cuts and less damage to surrounding tissues.

  • Reduced Pain: The spacer offers instant relief and protects your joints. This is because there is minimal rubbing between bones.

  • Faster Recovery: You can regain your mobility and return to your normal activities sooner than with conventional shoulder surgeries.

  • No Permanent Implant: The balloon dissolves gradually within your body and is not a permanent implant.

  • Preserve Natural Anatomy: In contrast to other surgical choices, this method does not change the shoulder's natural structure.

Read MoreAnterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury In Sports And Its Treatment

How Does It Work?

Gaining insight into the procedures of InSpace Balloon Surgery can alleviate your unease. Let's find out what you can expect.

Pre-Procedure: Preparation

Your doctor will perform a detailed assessment prior to the surgery. This involves several imaging tests. For example, X-rays, MRIs, etc. These can evaluate the state of your shoulder. You will need to discuss your medical background, current medications, and any allergies you have. Sometimes, the doctor suggests steering clear of specific medications before the procedure. For example, blood thinners. You may also need to fast for a few hours.

The Procedure: How the Balloon is Placed

  • Anaesthesia: Typically, the operation is carried out using general anaesthesia.

  • Arthroscopy: This step involves inserting an arthroscope in your body. It is a small camera. This device enters your body through small incisions. This helps the surgeon to check your shoulder joint up close.

  • Balloon Insertion: An experienced orthopaedic surgeon delicately inserts the balloon spacer into the subacromial space and fills it with saline.

  • Closing Incisions: Finally, the incisions are sealed with either stitches or surgical tape.

On average, the whole process usually lasts around 60 minutes. Most of the patients can leave the hospital on the same day.

Post-Procedure: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from InSpace Balloon Surgery is generally quicker than traditional surgeries. Most patients experience significant pain reduction and improved shoulder movement within a few weeks. Stick to your doctor’s guidelines for a smooth recovery.

  • Pain Management: Initially, there may be a little discomfort. Your doctor will prescribe pain relievers to ease the pain.

  • Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is key to restoring strength and mobility. Your physical therapist will guide you through a comprehensive physiotherapy program, focusing on active elbow, wrist, and finger movements.

  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon will monitor your healing progress.

Consult our Orthopaedic department at Manipal Hospitals Millers Road if you have a shoulder injury and wish to explore this newer option as your preferred treatment modality.

FAQ's

The InSpace balloon is designed to be biodegradable and will naturally dissolve within a few months after the surgery. During this time, it provides support and helps alleviate pain as your shoulder heals.
 

This surgery is primarily for those with irreparable rotator cuff tears. It may not be suitable for all shoulder conditions. Your surgeon will determine if this is the best option based on your specific diagnosis.
 

While InSpace Balloon Surgery is considered safe, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks such as infection, allergic reactions, or complications related to anaesthesia. However, these are rare, and most patients recover well with minimal complications.
 

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