The Evaluation and Surgical Treatment of the Acromioclavicular Joint in Conjunction With Subacromial Decompression (Coplaning)

The removal of osteophytes and prominences on both sides of the acromioclavicular joint to open up the supraspinatus outlet is an element of a subacromial decompression. The arthroscopic technique that removes these inferior spurs or portions of the distal clavicle to decrease injury to the rotator cuff is known as coplaning. Controversy exists about the benefits and advisability of coplaning. However, these concerns are not supported by several clinical studies. The resection of the inferior medial acromion and distal clavicle spurs, although theoretically causing an increase in clavicular mobility, does not cause late clinical problems and does achieve the primary goal of fully decompressing the supraspinatus outlet.