Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Singapore
Shoulder and elbow surgery may be considered for conditions that cause persistent pain, joint instability or restricted movement. These problems may result from sports injuries, repetitive strain or gradual joint degeneration.
Dr Toon Dong Hao is an orthopaedic surgeon at Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery. He performs arthroscopic (keyhole) and open procedures, including tendon repair, joint stabilisation and replacement surgery.
Common Shoulder Procedures Performed
Dr Toon Dong Hao recommends surgical procedures based on the diagnosis, severity of the condition and individual treatment goals. He will explain the available options and discuss the most appropriate approach.
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique performed through small incisions using a camera and specialised instruments. It allows the joint to be examined and treated at the same time.
It is commonly used for rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, labral injuries, and instability.
- Smaller incisions: Less disruption to surrounding tissue.
- Reduced scarring: Smaller scars compared with open surgery.
- Faster recovery: Recovery may be quicker than with open surgery, depending on the procedure performed.
Rotator cuff repair may be recommended when a tendon tear causes persistent pain, weakness, or difficulty lifting the arm and does not improve with non-surgical treatment. Surgery may also be considered earlier for certain acute tears.
The procedure involves reattaching the torn tendon to the bone. In suitable cases, this is performed using arthroscopic (keyhole) techniques to reduce pain, restore strength, and improve shoulder function.
Recovery involves a structured rehabilitation programme over several months. Dr Toon Dong Hao will explain the expected timeline based on your condition.
Shoulder stabilisation surgery may be recommended for recurrent dislocations or ongoing instability.
The procedure repairs damaged structures, such as the labrum and ligaments, to restore shoulder stability. It may be considered when dislocations recur, imaging confirms structural damage, or instability affects sports or daily activities.
Arthroscopic techniques are used where appropriate. Recovery includes a period of immobilisation followed by guided strengthening.
Shoulder replacement surgery may be considered for severe shoulder arthritis, significant joint damage or certain complex fractures that cause pain and restricted movement.
The procedure involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components to relieve pain and improve function. Depending on the condition, a total or reverse shoulder replacement may be recommended.
Recovery involves a period of rehabilitation to gradually restore shoulder movement and strength.
Common Elbow Procedures Performed
Dr Toon Dong Hao recommends elbow surgery based on the diagnosis, severity of the condition and individual treatment goals. He will explain the available procedures and discuss the most appropriate approach.
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and specialised instruments to examine and treat problems inside the elbow joint.
It may be recommended for conditions such as elbow arthritis, joint stiffness or loose fragments of bone and cartilage. The procedure uses small incisions to remove damaged tissue or bone spurs, potentially reducing pain and improving movement with less disruption to surrounding tissues.
Recovery varies according to the procedure performed and may involve physiotherapy to restore elbow mobility.
Elbow replacement surgery may be considered for severe elbow arthritis, extensive joint damage or certain complex fractures that affect movement and daily activities.
The procedure involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components to relieve pain, improve movement and restore elbow function.
Recovery includes rehabilitation to regain movement and strength. Patients may also need to follow long-term lifting restrictions to protect the artificial joint.
Elbow fracture surgery may be necessary when broken bones are displaced, the joint is unstable or the fracture involves the joint surface.
The procedure involves realigning the fractured bones and securing them with plates, screws or other fixation devices. This helps restore joint alignment and stability while supporting bone healing.
Recovery depends on the severity of the fracture and may include temporary immobilisation followed by guided exercises to improve movement and reduce stiffness.
Not Sure Which Procedure Is Right for You?
During your consultation, Dr Toon Dong Hao will assess your shoulder or elbow condition and explain the treatment options available, so you can decide on the next steps.
Meet Dr Toon Dong Hao
MBChB (Leeds), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedics, Singapore), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Toon Dong Hao is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in sports injuries, shoulder and elbow conditions, and knee surgery.
Professional Highlights
- Advanced Fellowship Training: Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Sydney, Australia, under the MOH HMDP Scholarship.
- Shoulder & Elbow Surgery: Performs rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilisation, and shoulder and elbow replacement.
- Advanced Arthroscopic Surgery: Among the early surgeons in Singapore to perform all-arthroscopic muscle advancement for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
- Sports & Knee Surgery: Skilled in ligament reconstruction, meniscus and cartilage repair, and knee preservation procedures, including osteotomy.
- Orthopaedic Trauma & Fractures: Management of fractures and traumatic orthopaedic injuries.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Your consultation focuses on understanding your symptoms, examining your shoulder or elbow and discussing suitable treatment options. Surgery is not always necessary and depends on your condition and goals.
Clinical examination
Assessment of shoulder or elbow movement, strength and stability.
Imaging review
Existing X-rays or MRI scans reviewed; further imaging arranged if needed.
Discussion of options
Non-surgical and surgical options explained, including expected outcomes.
Personalised plan
Recommendations and next steps based on your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Surgery may be considered for significant structural damage, joint instability or symptoms that persist despite non-surgical treatment. Certain fractures and acute injuries may require earlier surgical intervention.
Recovery varies by procedure. Some patients resume light activities within weeks, while procedures involving tendon repair, reconstruction or joint replacement may require several months of rehabilitation.
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, joint stiffness and complications related to the procedure. Dr Toon will explain the relevant risks and benefits before surgery.
Physiotherapy is commonly part of recovery after shoulder or elbow surgery. The rehabilitation programme depends on the procedure performed and may involve exercises to restore movement, strength and joint function.
Joint replacement may be considered for severe arthritis, extensive joint damage or certain complex fractures. The decision depends on the condition of the joint, symptoms and the patient's functional needs.
Insurance Panels
We work with selected corporate insurance providers and Integrated Shield Plan insurers. Coverage varies according to your policy and treatment. Our team can assist with insurance enquiries before your appointment.
Corporate Panel
Private Integrated Shield Plan
Book a Consultation for Shoulder or Elbow Surgery in Singapore
If you have ongoing shoulder or elbow pain, or have been advised to consider surgery, consult Dr Toon Dong Hao to understand your condition and the treatment options available.
Clinic Locations & Contact
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Opening Hours
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
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Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Orchard)
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth #04-07
Singapore 228510
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Novena)
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #04-26
Singapore 329563
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (East)
Parkway East Medical Centre
319 Joo Chiat Place #03-05
Singapore 427989
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Alvernia)
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre Block D
820 Thomson Road #05-55
Singapore 574623