Arthroscopic subacromial decompression for subacromial impingement syndrome

Objective To explore the clinical results of arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD) for treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome. Methods Twelve cases with subacromial impingement syndrome from October 1998 to November 2003 were retrospectively studied. There was one case at degree Ⅰ, five at degree Ⅱ and six at degree Ⅲ according to Neer classification. Preoperative X-ray of obverse shoulder joint and outlet supraspinatus muscle was made. Seven cases was examined with ultrasonography and 10 with MRI or MRA. All cases were treated with arthroscopic subacromial decompression and arthroscopic acromioplasty and six cases underwent simultaneously arthroscopic suture of the rotator cuff. Results The follow up for 1-6 years (average 26 months) showed significant statistical difference upon preoperative UCLA score and postoperative UCLA score that were 16.9±4.0 and 32.5±1.4, respectively (t=-14.027,P﹤0.01). The results were excellent in two cases and good in ten. All cases were satisfied with the operation. Conclusions ASD is shown to be an effective procedure for subacromial impingement syndrome and has the advantages of minimal trauma and rapid postoperative recovery.