Dr. Bret Sokoloff Memphis

Welcome to the digital home of Dr. Bret Sokoloff, a Memphis-based orthopedic surgeon with extensive expertise in sports medicine and shoulder and knee surgery. This platform showcases Dr. Sokoloff’s commitment to providing exceptional orthopedic care through his OrthoNow, PLLC practice and his dedication to the Memphis community. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Sokoloff is passionate about supporting athletic programs, mentoring emerging professionals, and enhancing patient outcomes with his personalized approach to healthcare. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of orthopedic surgery, Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis offers valuable insights and guidance for those seeking expert care in Memphis.

About Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis

Dr. Bret Sokoloff, MD, MBA, is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon based in Memphis, TN, specializing in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. Since 2008, Dr. Sokoloff has been dedicated to serving the Memphis community through his practice at OrthoNow, PLLC. With over two decades in the field, he has accrued a wealth of experience, having previously worked with the Memphis Orthopedic Group. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis holds a Medical Doctorate from Jefferson Medical College, where he received numerous clinical honors, and he completed his residency at the esteemed Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University. He further specialized through a fellowship in shoulder and knee surgery under Dr. Eugene Wolf in San Francisco. Complementing his medical expertise, Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis earned an MBA in Healthcare Management from George Washington University, equipping him with comprehensive skills to address both clinical and administrative aspects of patient care.

Board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. Sokoloff is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and holds extensive leadership experience. He has served as Chief of Staff Elect and Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Delta Medical Center and has contributed to medical education and development through committee roles and as an instructor for arthroscopic procedures. Dr. Sokoloff has also been a dedicated team physician, supporting athletes from the Memphis RiverKings to PGA Tour events, ensuring the health and safety of professional and collegiate athletes. His professional affiliations include Methodist and Baptist hospitals across the Memphis area. With a great passion for teaching, Dr. Sokoloff has been an instructor for leading courses on shoulder arthroscopy and biologics, sharing his expertise with peers and advancing orthopedic techniques.

The Latest Advances in Shoulder Arthroscopy: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Shoulder Surgery

Shoulder pain can be a significant hindrance, affecting daily activities and diminishing quality of life. Over the years, advancements in orthopedic surgery have provided more efficient and less invasive solutions to treat various shoulder conditions. One of the most remarkable innovations in this field is shoulder arthroscopy—a minimally invasive surgical procedure that has transformed the way orthopedic surgeons address shoulder injuries and diseases. As a seasoned orthopedic surgeon and instructor in shoulder arthroscopy, Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis brings insight into the benefits, uses, and latest advancements in this surgical approach.

What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems within the shoulder joint. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions, arthroscopy uses a small, pencil-sized camera called an arthroscope that is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder. This camera displays a high-resolution image of the joint on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to examine the intricate structures within the shoulder, including the bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, in great detail.

During the procedure, the surgeon can also use tiny instruments inserted through additional small incisions to perform various repairs. Because arthroscopy requires only small incisions, it offers significant benefits over traditional surgery, including less pain, faster recovery, and reduced risk of complications. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis explains that the technique has become the gold standard for many shoulder procedures, particularly those involving rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and labral tears.

Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy

The minimally invasive nature of shoulder arthroscopy offers numerous benefits for patients, making it an increasingly popular choice for addressing shoulder issues. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis shares some of the most notable advantages:

Reduced Pain and Scarring: With smaller incisions, patients typically experience less pain and scarring compared to traditional open surgery. This not only improves the cosmetic outcome but also enhances patient comfort during recovery.
Faster Recovery Time: Arthroscopic procedures are less disruptive to the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the shoulder joint. As a result, recovery times are often shorter, allowing patients to resume their daily activities and physical therapy sooner.
Lower Risk of Complications: Smaller incisions mean a reduced risk of infection, blood loss, and other complications that can arise from open surgery. Additionally, arthroscopy minimizes the likelihood of damaging surrounding tissues.
Enhanced Precision: The arthroscope provides a high-resolution view of the shoulder joint, allowing the surgeon to see details that may not be visible in traditional surgery. This precision is crucial for effective diagnosis and repair, especially in complex cases.
Versatility in Treating Various Conditions: Arthroscopy is not only beneficial for treating common injuries but also for addressing chronic conditions like arthritis and recurrent shoulder dislocations.

Common Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder conditions. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis provides some of the most common that include:

Rotator Cuff Tears: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears in the rotator cuff are common, especially among athletes and older adults, and can be effectively repaired through arthroscopy.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This condition occurs when the tendons of the shoulder are compressed, leading to pain and restricted movement. Arthroscopy can relieve impingement by reshaping or removing a part of the shoulder blade that causes the compression.
Labral Tears: The labrum is a ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket that helps stabilize the joint. Arthroscopy can repair labral tears, including SLAP (superior labrum anterior and posterior) tears, which are common in overhead athletes like baseball pitchers and tennis players.
Shoulder Instability: Recurrent dislocations or instability of the shoulder can often be corrected through arthroscopy, particularly by tightening the surrounding ligaments and tissues.
Arthritis and Bone Spurs: In some cases, shoulder arthroscopy can be used to clean out arthritic debris or remove bone spurs that may be causing pain or limited movement.

Advances in Shoulder Arthroscopy Technology

As technology continues to advance, so does the effectiveness and precision of shoulder arthroscopy. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis shares some of the most recent innovations that have made arthroscopy even more beneficial for patients:

High-Definition Cameras and 3D Imaging: Modern arthroscopes now come equipped with high-definition cameras, allowing for clearer visualization of the joint’s structures. Additionally, some surgical setups incorporate 3D imaging technology, providing the surgeon with an even more detailed view of the shoulder anatomy.
Improved Instrumentation: Newer, more specialized instruments have been developed for shoulder arthroscopy, enabling surgeons to perform complex repairs with minimal tissue disruption. For instance, enhanced suturing devices and anchor systems allow for more robust rotator cuff repairs.
Robotic Assistance and Navigation Systems: Some advanced centers are now incorporating robotic assistance and navigation systems in arthroscopic procedures. Robotic systems can enhance the precision of the surgery, helping the surgeon perform highly accurate movements. This is especially useful in cases that require intricate repairs, such as severe labral tears or challenging rotator cuff repairs.
Regenerative Medicine Integration: In recent years, regenerative medicine techniques like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy have been used alongside arthroscopic surgery. These treatments can promote tissue healing and improve recovery times, making them particularly valuable for treating soft tissue injuries.
Biocompatible Implants: Traditional implants used in shoulder surgeries were often made from metal, which could pose long-term complications. Today, biocompatible and bioabsorbable materials are increasingly used for anchors and sutures, reducing the need for future surgeries to remove hardware and improving patient outcomes.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Training for Surgeons: Training programs using AR and VR are enabling surgeons to practice complex arthroscopic techniques in a virtual environment. This enhances skill acquisition and allows surgeons to refine their techniques, which ultimately benefits patient care.

What to Expect During and After Shoulder Arthroscopy

The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery, meaning most patients can go home the same day. Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis provides a brief overview of what patients can expect:

Preoperative Preparation: Prior to the procedure, patients undergo a series of evaluations to ensure they’re ready for surgery. This may include imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to help the surgeon plan the surgery.
The Procedure: During arthroscopy, the surgeon makes a few small incisions around the shoulder and inserts the arthroscope. The surgeon can then use specialized instruments to treat the condition, whether that involves repairing a torn tendon, removing bone spurs, or other actions.
Postoperative Recovery: Recovery typically involves physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Most patients experience less pain and a faster return to activity compared to traditional surgery.
Follow-Up Care: Follow-up appointments help monitor healing progress and ensure that the shoulder is recovering well. Full recovery times can vary based on the specific procedure and the individual’s adherence to postoperative care instructions.

Shoulder arthroscopy represents a major advancement in orthopedic surgery, providing a less invasive, more effective option for addressing a variety of shoulder issues. With recent technological innovations, arthroscopic procedures continue to improve, offering even greater precision and better outcomes for patients. For anyone experiencing shoulder pain or considering shoulder surgery, consulting with an experienced orthopedic surgeon, like Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis, who specializes in arthroscopic techniques, can be the first step toward a successful and lasting recovery.

Thank you for visiting the online portfolio of Dr. Bret Sokoloff, a respected orthopedic surgeon with a career dedicated to patient-centered care, advanced surgical techniques, and community involvement. With extensive experience in sports medicine and shoulder and knee surgery, Dr. Sokoloff has made significant contributions to orthopedic care in Memphis, providing both athletes and patients with specialized, effective treatment options. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Bret Sokoloff of Memphis actively supports the community through sports team coverage, mentorship, and health education initiatives. His approach combines expert clinical knowledge with a commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and community well-being, benefiting individuals and the Memphis area as a whole.