Failed acromioplasty for impingement syndrome

Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection versus conservation in patients with combined rotator cuff tears and acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis

PURPOSE

The most common cause of shoulder pain originating from the acromioclavicular (AC) joint is osteoarthritis, causing pain and disability. Operative Management of AC arthritis includes arthroscopic distal clavicle resection (DCR) and open clavicle resection. This study was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of isolated rotator cuff repair with conservative treatment of ACJ arthritis versus the combined resection of the distal clavicle with the repair of a rotator cuff tear, in cases with acromioclavicular arthritis.

METHODS

A total of 46 patients with unilateral or bilateral combined rotator cuff tear and acromioclavicular arthritis were included, they were classified into 2 independent groups: Conservative group (23 patients), and DCR group (23 patients). All patients were subjected to full history taking, examination, pre and post-operative University of California at Los Angeles shoulder scoring scale (UCLA), Antero-Posterior and Zanca X-rays views, early and late complications.

RESULTS

Mean age was (51 ± 9) years, males were predominant (56.5%). The average post-operative UCLA score was (31.1 ± 4.9), and the average time to return to work was (214 ± 22). (2.2%) of patients had early complications, (19.6%) had late complications, (32.6%) had > 24 h till 1st post-operative analgesia, and (87%) needed MgSO4 Injection. We found a highly significant increase in UCLA score measurements in the Conservative group, and a highly significant increase in UCLA score measurements in the DCR group (p < 0.01). But there was no difference between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Conventional conservative approach with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and subacromial decompression has proven to be as effective as arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and subacromial decompression with DCR, in terms of efficacy and safety profiles in short term, but with more risks of potential hazards and cost with the DCR.

Preoperative Factors Associated With Subsequent Distal Clavicle Resection After Rotator Cuff Repair

Background:

Acromioclavicular osteoarthritis and rotator cuff tears are commonly coincident.

Purpose:

To determine the rate of subsequent distal clavicle excision (DCE) when rotator cuff repair (RCR) is performed without DCE and the risk factors for subsequent DCE after RCR.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The operative logs of 2 surgeons from 2007 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed for all patients who underwent RCR with or without DCE. Preoperative demographic data, symptoms, physical examination, and standardized outcomes (visual analog scale for pain, Simple Shoulder Test, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score) were noted. Acromioclavicular (AC) arthritis was classified on preoperative radiographs. The rate of subsequent surgery on the AC joint was determined via chart review, and univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine risk factors for revision.

Results:

In total, 894 patients underwent isolated RCR, and 46 underwent concomitant RCR and DCE. On retrospective chart review, of those who underwent isolated RCR, the revision rate for any reason was 7.5% (67 patients), and the rate of subsequent AC surgery was 1.1% (10 patients). Preoperatively, 88% of the total cohort was considered to have a radiographically normal AC joint. On multivariate analysis of patients who underwent isolated RCR, the risk factors for subsequent AC surgery included preoperative tenderness to palpation at the AC joint (10% vs 63%, P < .001), female sex (35% vs 80%, P < .001), and surgery on the dominant side (60% vs 100%, P = .002). On multivariate analysis, these 3 factors explained 50% of the variance in revision AC surgery. When these 3 factors were present in combination, there was a 40% rate of revision AC surgery.

Conclusion:

This records review found that 10 of 894 (1.1%) rotator cuff repairs underwent subsequent distal clavicle resection. Risk factors for subsequent DCE included tenderness to palpation at the AC joint, female sex, and surgery on the dominant side, with subsequent DCE performed in 40% of cases with a combination of these 3 factors. Because the duration of follow-up was short and the number of reoperations small, some caution is recommended in interpreting these results, as the analyses may be underpowered.

Impingement Syndrome of the Shoulder

BACKGROUND

Shoulder pain is the third most common musculoskeletal complaint in orthopedic practice. It is usually due to a defect of the rotator cuff and/or an impingement syndrome.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent literature retrieved by a selective search of the Medline database.

RESULTS

Patients with shoulder impingement syndrome suffer from painful entrapment of soft tissue whenever they elevate the arm. The pathological mechanism is a structural narrowing in the subacromial space. A multiplicity of potential etiologies makes the diagnosis more difficult; it is established by the history and physical examination and can be confirmed with x-ray, ultra - sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging. The initial treatment is conservative, e.g., with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, infiltrations, and patient exercises. Conservative treatment yields satisfactory results within 2 years in 60% of cases. If symptoms persist, decompressive surgery is performed as long as the continuity of the rotator cuff is preserved and there is a pathological abnormality of the bursa. The correct etiologic diagnosis and choice of treatment are essential for a good outcome. The formal evidence level regarding the best treatment strategy is low, and it has not yet been determined whether surgical or conservative treatment is better.

CONCLUSION

Randomized controlled therapeutic trials are needed so that a standardized treatment regimen can be established.

Predictive value of preoperative clinical examination for subacromial decompression in impingement syndrome

PURPOSE

Subacromial decompression is the standard surgical treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome. Unsatisfactory results have been reported for concomitant lesions as well as inadequate diagnosis. We sought to determine the predictive value of the preoperative examination for the results of arthroscopic subacromial decompression in impingement syndrome.

METHODS

Forty-nine shoulder joints in 47 patients receiving arthroscopic subacromial decompression were prospectively followed for a mean 3.7 ± 0.4 years. Prior to surgery, the impingement tests according to Neer, Hawkins-Kennedy (in the neutral as well as abducted position), and the Jobe test (empty can position) were evaluated as well as the presence of a painful arc. The association between the presence of these sings, success of the operation, and improvement in Constant scores as well as WORC indices was analysed.

RESULTS

Pre- to postoperative improvement in Constant scores as well as WORC indices was greater in case of a positive test result for every test studied. With the numbers available, significant greater improvements in Constant scores were observed only for patients with a positive Hawkins-Kennedy sign in the neutral position, Neer and Jobe tests, compared to patients with negative signs, respectively. No significant differences were observed for the improvement in WORC indices. Patients with at least four positive tests out of the five studied had greater improvement in Constant scores than patients with three or less positive test results. Five patients went on to receive subsequent shoulder surgery. There was no association between the necessity for revision surgery and the presence or absence of impingement signs.

CONCLUSION

The impingement tests according to Hawkins-Kennedy, Neer, and Jobe are valid predictors of outcome after subacromial decompression, as is the presence of multiple impingement tests. This study may aid in improving patient outcome and especially patient selection for subacromial decompression.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic, Level I.

Is arthroscopic distal clavicle resection necessary for patients with radiological acromioclavicular joint arthritis and rotator cuff tears? A prospective randomized comparative study

BACKGROUND

The failure of subacromial decompression may be attributed to persistent symptoms of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) arthritis, while inferior clavicular spurs of the ACJ may be associated with failed healing of repaired rotator cuffs.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of arthroscopic distal clavicle resection (DCR) in patients with rotator cuff tears and concomitant asymptomatic radiological ACJ arthritis.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

A total of 78 patients with rotator cuff tears in addition to radiological and asymptomatic ACJ arthritis who were scheduled for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were prospectively randomized into 2 groups. Patients underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with acromioplasty. Patients in group 1 (39 patients) underwent additional arthroscopic DCR, while patients in group 2 (39 patients) did not. Clinical outcomes of the 2 groups were compared using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion, Constant score, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score up to at least 24 months. The structural integrity of repaired rotator cuffs was assessed using ultrasonography, computed tomography arthrography, or MRI at least 6 months after surgery. To evaluate ACJ instability, weighted stress radiography of the ACJ was studied at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Patients in both groups showed significant improvement in the VAS score and all functional scores at final follow-up (mean, 29.2 months; range, 24-46 months) without significant differences between the 2 groups (P > .05). Results (mean ± SD) for preoperative group 1/group 2 and postoperative group 1/group 2 were as follows, respectively: 7.2 ± 1.8/6.1 ± 1.9 (P = .02) and 0.6 ± 1.8/0.6 ± 0.9 (P = .97) for the VAS score, 74.1 ± 5.7/73.8 ± 8.0 (P = .87) and 96.3 ± 5.7/95.7 ± 4.6 (P = .77) for the Constant score, and 47.0 ± 10.3/50.8 ± 14.1 (P = .22) and 91.5 ± 15.5/94.5 ± 11.8 (P = .55) for the ASES score. Failed cuff healing occurred in 9 patients (23%) in group 1 and 10 patients (26%) in group 2, with no significant difference (P = .95). In group 1, there were 2 patients (5.0%) with ACJ subluxation on weighted stress radiography at 6 months postoperatively. These patients complained of gross protrusion and ACJ tenderness.

CONCLUSION

Preventive arthroscopic DCR in patients with rotator cuff tears and concomitant asymptomatic radiological ACJ arthritis did not result in better clinical or structural outcomes, and it did lead to symptomatic ACJ instability in some patients. Preventive arthroscopic DCR is not recommended in patients with radiological but asymptomatic ACJ arthritis. Further long-term follow-up is needed to confirm the development of symptoms in ACJ arthritis.

Outcomes of open subacromial decompression after failed arthroscopic acromioplasty

Aim. To prospectively assess the effectiveness of revision with open subacromial decompression in patients who had a previous unsatisfactory outcome with the arthroscopic procedure. Methods. 11 patients were identified for the study, who did not demonstrate expected improvement in symptoms after arthroscopic acromioplasty. All patients underwent structured rehabilitation. Functional evaluation was conducted using the Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, shoulder rating questionnaire. Results. M : F was 7 : 4. The mean age was 57 years. The average shoulder score improved from 49.6 preoperatively to 56 postoperatively at an average followup of 16 months. Two patients showed deterioration in their shoulder scores after revision while the rest showed only marginal improvement. All except one patient stated that they would opt for surgery again if given a second chance. Conclusion. In the group of patients that fail to benefit from the arthroscopic decompression, only a marginal improvement was noted after revision with open decompression.

Impact of work-related compensation claims on surgical outcome of patients with rotator cuff related pathologies: a matched case-control study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this matched case-control study was to examine the impact of an active compensation claim following a work-related shoulder injury on reporting disability, as measured by subjective and objective outcomes at 1 year postoperatively.

METHODS

Data of 517 consecutive patients who had undergone a decompression or rotator cuff repair were reviewed. One-hundred and ten patients were on compensation related to their shoulder problems. These patients were matched with a historical control group (patients without a compensation claim) based on age, sex, and level of pathology. Outcome measures used were the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, the American Shoulder and Elbow Score, and the Constant-Murley score. Nonparametric Wilcoxon and Ranked sign tests were conducted to examine the difference between and within groups.

RESULTS

Data of 220 patients were used for analysis (mean age, 48+/-10; range, 20-69). Out of 110 patients in each group, 45 patients (41%) had undergone a repair and 65 (59%) had undergone a decompression surgery (acromioplasty with or without resection of lateral clavicle). Both groups improved significantly regardless of their claim status (P < .0001). There was a significant difference between injured and noninjured workers at baseline, 1-year postoperatively, and in overall improvement with the compensation group having a significantly higher level of disability.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that although injured workers report a statistically significant higher level of disability before and after rotator cuff surgery, they still show significant improvement 1 year following decompression or repair of the rotator cuff tendon(s).

Factors contributing to failure of rotator cuff surgery in persons with work-related injuries

PURPOSE

Shoulder pain is a major musculoskeletal and economic concern in industrialized countries, with the rate of surgical failure reportedly higher in patients injured at work. The purposes of this study were (1) to examine the prevalence of identifiable causes of rotator cuff surgery failure and (2) to examine the relationship among the existence of these causes and outcome scores, patient expectations, and overall satisfaction.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of patients who experienced continued impairments following surgical treatment for work-related injuries. The primary outcome was a disease-specific measure, the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) index. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the existence of an identifiable reason for surgical failure vs. no reason for failure, as demonstrated by clinical and radiologic investigations and decided upon by a shoulder surgeon and a physical therapist. Analyses included a t-test for independent sample means, linear regression, non-parametric Wilcoxon test, and Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight consecutive patients were included in the study, and 24 causes of surgical failure were identified in 19 patients (50%). Overall, patients with findings of failure were more disabled according to the total WORC index and had higher levels of symptoms, emotional difficulties, and limitations in sports and recreational activities. Expectations and satisfaction levels were not significantly different between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that 50% of patients who reported failed surgery had at least one reason to explain their ongoing symptoms, emotional difficulties, and functional limitations.

Difference in outcome of shoulder surgery between workers' compensation and nonworkers' compensation populations

The purpose of this study was to review the association between compensation status and surgical outcome especially of the shoulder. Given the high prevalence of shoulder injuries in the workplace and the large proportion of workers compensation (WC) claims involving such injuries, it is worth examining the correlation between WC status and surgical outcome of the shoulder. All studies published in journals (MEDLINE and PubMed) from 1980 through 2007 on surgical interventions performed on the shoulder in which workers compensation status was documented and the postoperative functional outcome was compared according to that status were pooled for meta-analysis. This systematic review shows that compensation status of an individual receiving shoulder surgery is a consistent positive predictor of poor functional outcome. The majority of questions posed in the most commonly adopted shoulder-specific functional outcome measurement tools were subjective in nature and may account for part of the phenomenon.

Acromioclavicular joint reoperation after arthroscopic subacromial decompression with and without concomitant acromioclavicular surgery

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the reoperation rate on the acromioclavicular (AC) joint after arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASAD) with and without concomitant AC joint surgery and to identify factors related to continued AC joint symptoms.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 1,482 cases without concomitant shoulder pathology that were followed up by physical examination, phone interview, questionnaire, or chart review. Group A, patients who underwent ASAD alone, consisted of 1,091 cases. Group B, patients who underwent ASAD with concomitant AC joint surgery consisting of either co-planing or arthroscopic distal clavicle resection (ADCR), consisted of 391 cases.

RESULTS

A total of 22 patients underwent reoperation on the AC joint. The overall reoperation rate was 1.5%, or 22 of 1,482 patients. The index procedure failed in 16 patients from the ASAD group (group A), yielding a reoperation rate of 1.5%. The index procedure failed in 6 patients from the group undergoing ASAD with concomitant AC joint surgery (group B), for a reoperation rate of 1.5%. Reoperation occurred at a mean of 22 months and 8 months for group A and group B, respectively. Overall, 17 of 22 patients (77%) who required AC joint reoperation were either Workers' Compensation (WC) or litigation cases. The reoperation rate was 2.4% for WC patients and 0.8% for non-WC patients. WC status was found to be a statistically significant factor in the rate of reoperation for AC joint symptoms (P < .05). Of the 22 patients, 10 continued to have pain at a mean of 25.9 months (range, 9 to 53 months) after reoperation. Given the similar rates of reoperation, routine AC joint violation by co-planing or ADCR is not recommended during ASAD. Reoperation for continued AC joint symptoms was associated with a nearly 50% rate of continued symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study show that the incidence of reoperation on the AC joint after ASAD with or without concomitant AC joint surgery is small for both groups with a 1.5% rate of reoperation for each group. The incidence of reoperation is lower, at 0.8%, for non-WC cases. In addition, there was a high rate of continued symptoms, with 45% of patients having continued pain after reoperation. Violation of the AC joint during the initial surgery by co-planing or ADCR did not alter the reoperation rate for AC joint symptoms.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Multimodality imaging of the postoperative shoulder

Multimodality imaging of the postoperative shoulder includes radiography, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, MR arthrography, computed tomography (CT), CT arthrography, and ultrasound. Target-oriented evaluation of the postoperative shoulder necessitates familiarity with surgical techniques, their typical complications and sources of failure, knowledge of normal and abnormal postoperative findings, awareness of the advantages and weaknesses with the different radiologic techniques, and clinical information on current symptoms and function. This article reviews the most commonly used surgical procedures for treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability, lesions of the labral-bicipital complex, subacromial impingement, and rotator cuff lesions and highlights the significance of imaging findings with a view to detection of recurrent lesions and postoperative complications in a multimodality approach.

[Shoulder arthroscopy. Partial thickness tears of the rotator cuff.]

Partial tears are frequent in rotator cuff pathology. Articular-side lesions, bursal-side lesion and interstitial lesion inside the thickness of the tendon are described. Etiopathogeny is not clearly known. It seems a multifactory association with intrinsic tendinous factors (vascularity, normal ageing of the tendon), extrinsic mechanical factors (impingement syndrome) and trauma. Clinically, the complaint is a painful shoulder with full range of motion. The rotator cuff examination does not shown weakness but pain. The onset is traumatic or degenerative. It could be the consequence of overuse specially in case of overhead sport. Diagnosis is confirmed by arthro-CT or/and (arthro) MRI. It is useful for the treatment to determine the size of the rupture regarding the thickness of the tendon. Natural history shows that partial tears do not healed. Treatment of the partial tear of the cuff is still debatable particularly for intertstitial lesion (acromioplasty, debridment, repair). Isolated acromioplasty permit to obtain pain relief but do not prevent evolution to full-thickness tear when the lesion concern more than 50% of the thickness of the tendon. In this case, arthroscopic tendon repair gives good and reliable results.

MR Imaging of the Shoulder after Surgery

This review article describes postoperative MR findings relating to surgery in shoulder impingement syndrome, including rotator cuff lesions, shoulder instability, and arthroplasty. Potentially misleading postoperative findings are emphasized. Because standard MR imaging may not always be the method of choice for post operative imaging, alternative imaging techniques have been included (MR arthrography, CT arthrography, and sonography).

Long-term results of acromioclavicular joint coplaning

PURPOSE

Coplaning removes medial acromial spurs and portions of the distal clavicle with an arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD). Concerns exist that this violates inferior acromioclavicular (AC) ligaments and increases AC joint mobility, resulting in long-term problems. The purpose of this study was to re-evaluate 3 cohorts of patients who underwent ASD with various degrees of coplaning and to determine if late AC joint tenderness or reoperation had occurred.

TYPE OF STUDY

Nonrandomized control study.

METHODS

Eighty-one patients undergoing ASD were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (24) underwent removal of inferior clavicle osteophytes, group 2 (34) had a distal clavicle hemiresection with up to 50% of the articular cartilage removed, and group 3 (23) had complete distal clavicle resection. Radiographs, charts, and arthroscopic videotapes were reviewed to determine the amount of clavicle removed. Follow-up evaluations included Constant-Murley, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), SANE, and Rowe shoulder scores with special attention given to AC joint pain and additional procedures.

RESULTS

The average patient age was 46 years (range, 19 to 81 years) and follow-up was 73 months. At follow-up, the average Constant, ASES, Row, and SANE scores were: for group 1, 97.1, 97.5, 96.9, and 95.8, respectively; for group 2, 95.1, 97.4, 96, and 92.8, respectively; and for group 3, 96.3, 98.3, 96.1, and 95.7. No patient required additional shoulder surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Coplaning did not increase AC joint symptoms, compromise clinical results, or lead to additional surgery at an average follow-up of 6 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series study.

Can the impingement test predict outcome after arthroscopic subacromial decompression?

The impingement test, placement of local anesthetic in the subacromial space, is considered a useful tool in diagnosing impingement syndrome. The purpose of this study was to examine the predictive value of the impingement test with respect to outcome after arthroscopic subacromial decompression. Fifty-five patients who had a preoperative impingement test were evaluated at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. We noted 88% satisfactory results in patients in whom the impingement test was positive, with only 63% satisfactory results at 3 months and 60% satisfactory results at 12 months in patients in whom the impingement test was negative. Although workers' compensation patients tended to have lower scores than others, the impingement test result was more predictive of outcome than was compensation status. Impingement test results and preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were independent predictors of postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores. Our evidence indicates that the impingement test can be used as a predictor of outcome for patients with impingement syndrome treated by arthroscopic subacromial decompression.

Intraoperative measurements of the subacromial distance

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was 2-fold: to document the accuracy of a new measuring device and to intraoperatively compare the subacromial distance between controls and patients with impingement syndrome before and after arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD).

TYPE OF STUDY

Clinical study.

METHODS

When performing an ASD, it is important that bone resection is adequate. Today the correct subacromial distance after bone resection is only assessed by eye, directly or indirectly. The subacromial distance was measured between the anterolateral corner of the acromion and the supraspinatus tendon in the lateral decubitus position. The device was inserted 2 to 3 cm below the anterolateral acromion. There was no subacromial pathology among the controls (n = 15, mean age, 28 years). In 30 patients with impingement syndrome (average age, 53 years) an ASD was performed. The subacromial distance was measured after bursectomy and then after bone resection. Intraindividual and interindividual assessment was performed.

RESULTS

The mean value of the subacromial distance in controls was 16 mm, the 95% confidence limits between 14 and 18 mm. The mean value in the group of patients with impingement syndrome was 8 mm before and 16 mm after the decompression. Due to the pressure within the subacromial space, the subacromial distance increased 1 mm. Intraindividual measurements never varied more than 1 mm (n = 5). The correlation coefficient between the measurements by both authors was 0.99.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we assessed and described the use of a measuring device that enables the surgeon to quantify the subacromial distance before and after bone resection. After bone resection, the mean value of the subacromial distance was well within the control values. The amount of bone resected varied from 5 to 13 mm. This new device enables documentation in clinical work as well as in research.

Arthroscopic versus open acromioplasty: a prospective, randomized, blinded study

The purpose of this study is to determine whether arthroscopic acromioplasty is equivalent or superior to open acromioplasty, in a prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded clinical trial. Seventy-one patients with a clinical diagnosis of impingement syndrome were randomized to arthroscopic or open acromioplasty. Nine were excluded because of full-thickness rotator cuff tears diagnosed after randomization. Sixty-two patients (49 men and 13 women) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months (mean, 25 months) were included. The patient groups were virtually identical with regard to duration of symptoms, shoulder functional demands, age, sex, hand dominance, mechanism of onset, range of motion, strength, joint laxity, and the presence of a compensation claim. Patients were prospectively randomized to arthroscopic or open acromioplasty after stratification for age (>50 years),associated ligamentous laxity, and the presence of an ongoing compensation claim. The main outcome measure was visual analog scales for pain and function. Also recorded were UCLA shoulder scores and visual analog scales for postoperative improvement, patient satisfaction, and a variety of clinical measures. An independent blinded examiner assessed all patients. There was no significant difference between open and arthroscopic acromioplasty in visual analog scales for postoperative improvement (P =.30), patient satisfaction (P =.94), UCLA shoulder score (P =.69), or strength (P =.62); however, open was superior to arthroscopic acromioplasty for pain and function (P =.01). Overall, 67% of patients had a good or excellent result. This increased to 87% when unsettled compensation claims were excluded. Repeat (open) acromioplasty was performed in 5 patients in the unsuccessful arthroscopic group without improvement. Open acromioplasty was equivalent to arthroscopic acromioplasty for UCLA scores and patient satisfaction. For pain and function, both gave significant improvement but the open technique may be superior. Unsettled compensation is a predictor of poor outcome.

Coplaning of the acromioclavicular joint

PURPOSE

Coplaning removes inferior spurs or portions of the distal clavicle to decrease injury to the rotator cuff. This study sought to determine if the presence or degree of coplaning influenced the results and if reoperations for distal clavicle symptoms were needed.

TYPE OF STUDY

Nonrandomized control study.

METHODS

A total of 76 patients undergoing arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD) followed for at least 25 months were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 included 28 patients who underwent ASD with removal of only an inferior clavicular osteophyte. Group 2 included 27 patients with resection of any inferior clavicle spur, violation of the inferior joint capsule, and removal of articular cartilage to a level adjacent with the resected acromion. As much as 50% of the articular cartilage was removed in some cases. Group 3 included 21 patients who underwent a complete distal clavicle excision. Radiographs, charts, and arthroscopic videotapes were reviewed and the degree of claviculectomy exactly determined. Follow-up evaluations included the Constant-Murley, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), SANE, and Rowe shoulder scores, with special attention given to acromioclavicular (AC) joint pain and additional operations.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 49 years (range, 19 to 81 years) and follow-up averaged 40 months (range, 25 to 68 months). Follow-up Constant, ASES, Rowe, and SANE scores for the various groups were calculated. Group 1 scores were 99.4, 98.7, 98.6, and 98.1, respectively; group 2 scores were 96.8, 98.7, 98.5, and 95.7, respectively; and group 3 scores were 98.4, 99.4, 99.3, and 98.6, respectively. No patient required any additional AC joint surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Violation of the AC joint capsule and partial distal clavicle resection to make it confluent with the resected acromion (coplaning), does not cause increased AC joint symptoms, compromise the results, or lead to additional surgery at an average 40-month follow-up.

Reossification and fusion across the acromioclavicular joint after arthroscopic acromioplasty and distal clavicle resection

Arthroscopic acromioplasty and distal clavicle resection has now become an accepted method of treatment for acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis. Complications following arthroscopic acromioplasty are relatively uncommon and include instrument breakage, hematoma, traction neuropathy, infection, acromial fracture, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and recurrence of symptoms. Although heterotopic ossification within the soft tissues has also been reported, complete reossification of the resected clavicle has not. We report a case of reossification of the clavicle and fusion across the AC joint following arthroscopic acromioplasty and distal clavicle resection.

Intraoperative measurement of shoulder translation

Assessing laxity of the shoulder joint in patients who are under anesthesia is a standard procedure before arthroscopy. The aim of this study was to evaluate a novel instrument for quick and reliable intraoperative measurement of glenohumeral translation. Previous testing of various designs has resulted in a device secured by 1 pin in the acromion and 1 pin in the proximal humerus. These pins are interconnected by a sliding ruler that gives translation values in millimeter increments as the laxity tests are performed. Comparison between manual arbitrary approximation of laxity and instrumented translation measurements showed that manual testing is reasonably good for assessment of anterior and posterior translation, without, however, providing values of translation in millimeter increments. The low correlation between manual assessment and instrumented inferior translation measurements indicates that inferior translation is more difficult to approximate manually. The shoulder translation tester was used in 102 patients. The mean values for clinically stable shoulders (n = 58) were 5 mm for anterior translation, 5 mm for posterior translation, and 4 mm for inferior translation. The corresponding values in unstable shoulders were significantly higher than in the stable shoulders, especially in patients with multidirectional instability. We conclude that the shoulder translation tester is easy and quick to use. It provides quantitative values of translation and will thus contribute information for correct diagnosis, therapy, and documentation.

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression

In this study, we analyzed the results of two series of patients treated for impingement syndrome by undergoing arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASD). Patients had not responded to nonoperative treatment. Group 1 included 112 consecutive patients (average age, 41 years) with 96 (77%) patients available for 2-year follow-up. Group 2 (28 patients, 29 shoulders; average age, 43 years; range, 22 to 72) had ASD and the subacromial space digitally palpated to determine if adequate decompression was performed. Twenty-two (85%) of 26 shoulders were available for follow-up. At follow-up, pain, function, range of motion, strength, impingement signs, and patient satisfaction were assessed. In group 1, according to the Neer criteria, 48% of the patients were graded as satisfactory and 52% unsatisfactory. Workers' Compensation patients had a satisfactory rate of 32%, whereas non-Workers' Compensation patients had a satisfactory rate of 59%. Twenty patients had open acromioplasty after ASD. Inadequate decompression was noted in 14 of 20 failed patients. In group 2, 86% of the patients were graded as satisfactory according to the Neer criteria, with 14% unsatisfactory, which included the 2 failures. The 2 (9%) of 22 shoulders that failed the ASD went on to further surgical treatment. Average follow-up was 56 months (range, 13 to 78 months). The average American Shoulder and Elbow Society score at follow-up was 90.4. No difference between Workers' Compensation cases and the other cases was seen (P <.7). Finger palpation can help to improve outcomes by allowing the surgeon to assess the adequacy of decompression.

Vanishing distal clavicle after arthroscopic acromioplasty

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression is gaining wide acceptance. There are several reports on its technique, its limitations, and its efficacy. However, papers describing complications are rare. We describe a case of osteolysis of the distal clavicle after overenthusiastic arthroscopic subacromial decompression.

Do shoulder patients insured by workers' compensation present with worse self-assessed function and health status?

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that patients whose shoulder problems are covered by workers' compensation insurance perceive worse shoulder function and health status than do comparable patients whose problem is not covered by workers' compensation. Each of 1063 consecutive patients presenting with shoulder problems to an individual consultant completed 2 questionnaires: the Simple Shoulder Test inventory of shoulder function and the Short Form 36 general health assessment. The patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of whether care of the shoulder problem was covered by injured workers' compensation insurance. The results indicate that patients whose shoulder condition is covered by workers' compensation have significantly lower self-assessed shoulder function and health status than do those patients whose shoulder conditions are not related to on-the-job injuries. The differences between the workers' compensation and non-workers' compensation groups could not be attributed to differences in age, sex, or diagnosis.

Re-formation of the coracoacromial ligament after open resection or arthroscopic release

In 21 (91%) of 23 shoulder revisions after primary surgery involving resection or release of the coracoacromial ligament, there was evidence of a reattached or re-formed coracoacromial ligament. In 9 cases there was no other obvious explanation for symptom recurrence, and in 7 cases the coracoacromial ligament might have influenced progression of rotator cuff pathosis. Electron micrographs of a re-formed ligament showed a substantially large amount of large-diameter (> 100 microns) collagen fibrils resembling those of a normal ligament. We conclude that the coracoacromial ligament has an ability to re-form or reattach, whether primarily resected or released, and that this might account for recurrent symptoms.

Comparison of arthroscopic and open revision decompression for failed anterior acromioplasty

Thirty-six consecutive patients who underwent revision decompression for refractory subacromial impingement were studied retrospectively. Average interval from the primary decompression procedure to revision was 29 months. Eighteen patients underwent arthroscopic and 18 underwent open revision. Six (33%) patients in the arthroscopic group and 12 (67%) patients in the open group were workers' compensation cases. At an average follow-up of 26 months, 17 (94%) patients in the arthroscopic group and 8 (44%) in the open group were satisfied with their procedure. Comparing workers' compensation patients, 5 of 6 in the arthroscopic group and 4 of 12 in the open group were satisfied. For nonworkers' compensation patients, all 12 patients in the arthroscopic group and 4 of 6 in the open group were satisfied. Average pain scores and postoperative range of motion was improved in both groups. Dense subacromial scarring with thick, fibrous adhesions was present in all patients. Residual, prominent bone, or an acromial spur was found in 20 (56%) patients. Overall, revision arthroscopic subacromial decompression was superior to open revision. However, there were more workers' compensation patients in the open group. Workers' compensation patients fared worse for both groups, but a significant proportion (83%) of the arthroscopic group was satisfied. Since subacromial scarring may be the most important pathology, arthroscopy is less invasive, allowing earlier, unrestricted postoperative rehabilitation and proving more effective.

Five year results of rotator cuff repair

In thirty nine patients with either an acute rotator cuff rupture or a chronic impingement syndrome plus a cuff tear, a standard acromioplasty was performed along with a cuff repair using a bone detaching approach. Postoperative active motion was allowed in all but three. Follow up examination was performed two and five years after the operation. Continuous improvement in function, range of movement, and strength was observed, while pain increased slightly. The size of the tear and delay in treatment were determining factors in the outcome.

The measurement of subacromial contact pressure in patients with impingement syndrome

This study presents the subacromial contact pressure findings in 25 patients who underwent an arthroscopic acromioplasty for impingement syndrome. All patients failed a course of conservative management before surgery. Patients were evaluated, both before and after acromioplasty, by examination, UCLA functional score, and radiographic assessment of acromial morphology. At the time of surgery, a 4 x 10 mm air-filled catheter was placed beneath the anterior aspect of the acromion under arthroscopic visualization. Subacromial contact pressures were recorded throughout an arc of shoulder motion. Mean pressure and standard deviation were derived from three trials. This protocol was performed on all patients and the results were statistically evaluated. The mean subacromial pressure before acromioplasty was 11.7, 35.6, 50.1, 51.1, and 57.4 mm Hg at abduction arcs of 0 degrees , 90 degrees , and 180 degrees, hyperabduction (forced passive limit of abduction), and cross-reach (arm adducted across the patient's chest with the shoulder internally rotated), respectively. The pressure after acromioplasty decreased to 1.6, 7.8, 15.9, 22.8, and 16.5 mm Hg, respectively. This decrease was significant in all positions (P = .016 at 0 degrees and <.001 in all other positions). At 90 degrees of abduction, pressure always decreased in internal rotation and increased in external rotation. Maximal contact pressure developed in either hyperabduction or cross-reach in all patients except two. Preoperative testing for the position of maximum impingement pain generally correlated with the position of maximum contact pressure.

Arthroscopic acromioplasty. Current status

Impingment is a chronic syndrome characterized by microtrauma, which causes progressive injury to the rotator cuff tendon. In recent years, arthro- scopic subacromial decompression/acromioplasty has been frequently used for the treatment of impingement syndrome and is quickly becoming the preferred surgical treatment when conservative modalities fail. Arthroscopic acromioplasty offers many benefits over open acromioplasty, including better cosmesis, lessened preoperative morbidity, a more complete intraoperative examination, and a hastened, early rehabilitation program.

Painful Shoulder After Surgery for Rotator Cuff Disease

Persistent shoulder pain after surgery for rotator cuff disease may be caused by conditions that are either extrinsic or intrinsic to the shoulder. Extrinsic causes of persistent shoulder pain include cervical radiculopathy, suprascapular neuropathy, abnormalities of scapular rotation (due to long-thoracic or spinal-accessory neuropathy), and adjacent or metastatic neoplasms. Causes of persistent pain that are intrinsic to the shoulder include both intra-articular conditions (e.g., glenohumeral osteoarthritis, adhesive capsulitis, recurrent anterior subluxation, and labral and bicipital tendon abnormalities) and extra-articular conditions (e.g., persistent subacromial impingement, persistent or recurrent rotator cuff defects, acromioclavicular arthropathy, and deltoid muscle deficiency). Successful management requires an accurate diagnosis, maximal rehabilitation, judicious use of surgical intervention, and a well-motivated patient. The results of revision surgery in patients with persistent subacromial impingement, with or without an intact cuff, are inferior to reported results after primary acromioplasty or rotator cuff repair.

Heterotopic ossification after acromioplasty and distal clavicle resection

A retrospective review of acromioplasty and distal clavicle resections disclosed 40 cases in which postoperative ectopic bone formation caused recurrent shoulder impingement or acromioclavicular joint pain. Symptomatic lesions either encroached on the supraspinatus outlet or were located in the acromioclavicular interval and were large in size. The incidence of symptomatic heterotopic ossification occurring after acromioplasty or distal clavicle excision was 3.2% and was disproportionately seen in patients with chronic pulmonary diseases (p < 0.05). Heterotopic bone formation could not be correlated with the method of bone resection and occurred after both open and arthroscopic procedures. No evidence of bone remnants or calcific deposits was seen in 17 patients in whom postoperative radiographs were taken within 8 weeks of the operation. It thus appeared that the heterotopic bone formed de novo after the procedure. Twenty patients had repeat shoulder surgery to ameliorate symptoms; four of these had a second recurrence of postoperative heterotopic bone formation. Three of the four required a third procedure and had effective prophylaxis against heterotopic ossification. It is suggested that patients at risk (e.g., with a profile of hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy or active spondylitic arthropathy) be treated with prophylaxis for heterotopic ossification after acromioplasty and distal clavicle resections.

The "arthroscopic impingement test"

Arthroscopic acromioplasty is an effective technique to treat refractory impingement syndrome of the shoulder; however, it is a technically demanding procedure and failure due to inadequate acromial resection has been reported. The purpose of this study was to describe a more reliable technique of arthroscopic acromioplasty ("arthroscopic impingement test") that allows determination of subacromial space available (SSA) during shoulder flexion after acromioplasty. During a 2-year period, 70 consecutive patients (group I) underwent arthroscopic acromioplasty by a conventional technique and 50 consecutive patients (group II) underwent the modified technique. Both groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, chronicity of symptoms, incidence of workman's compensation cases, side of surgery, and operative findings. In group I, four patients (6%) failed due to inadequate acromioplasty and at time of revision were found to have 0 mm SSA at 120 degrees flexion (contact of cuff on acromion). After revision acromioplasty, SSA at 120 degrees flexion was measured as > 3 mm, and impingement symptoms resolved postoperatively. In group II, there were no failures and SSA after initial acromioplasty was found to average 13 mm at 0 degree 10 mm at 45 degrees, 8 mm at 90 degrees, and 6 mm at 120 degrees flexion. In four cases, the "arthroscopic impingement test" determined that there was inadequate SSA at 120 degrees (< 3 mm) after initial acromioplasty, and these were revised by further acromioplasty at time of surgery. It was concluded that the "arthroscopic impingement test" improves reliability of arthroscopic acromioplasty by verifying adequate acromial resection in a position of impingement.

Failure of arthroscopic decompression by subacromial heterotopic ossification causing recurrent impingement

Heterotopic ossification is a well-recognized complication of musculoskeletal trauma and elective orthopaedic surgery. A series of 10 cases of arthroscopic subacromial decompressions developed postoperative heterotopic bone. In eight, the ectopic bone caused recurrent shoulder impingement. These are the first reported cases in which heterotopic ossification compromised the results of an arthroscopic procedure. It is recommended that the patient at risk (e.g., with active spondolytic arthropathy or a profile of hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy--obesity, diabetes with a history of chronic pulmonary disease) be considered for heterotopic ossification prophylaxis.

Use of a thirty-degree caudal tilt radiograph in the shoulder impingement syndrome

The formation of a bony spur or prominence at the anterior acromion is an important pathologic factor in impingement syndrome, and the detection and estimation of the size of such a spur are also important for diagnosis and treatment. We investigated the usefulness of a 30° caudal tilt view of the shoulder for detection of the bony spur. A 30° caudal tilt view was used to detect a spur in 52 of 73 joints diagnosed as having the impingement syndrome, whereas the spur was detected in only 27 joints when routine anteroposterior films were used. Only sufficiently larger spurs that projected toward the coracoid process could be recognized on anteroposterior films. Because the 30° caudal tilt view demonstrated the exact architecture of the spur encountered at operation, it was useful not only for preoperative planning but also for evaluation of the adequacy of surgery.

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression: a clinical review

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression has become a popular technique supplanting the open Neer acromioplasty in many instances of chronic rotator cuff disease. A review of 61 consecutive decompressions with a minimum follow-up of 12 months was undertaken to evaluate preoperative criteria and surgical outcomes. Of the 61 patients, 53 patients with an average follow-up of 23 months were available for review. Thirty-four men and 19 women with an average age of 47 years comprised the study group. Eleven (21%) had full-thickness tears, 35 (66%) had partial-thickness injuries, and 7 (13%) had normal-appearing rotator cuffs at the time of arthroscopy. The UCLA shoulder rating system was used to evaluate outcome. Eighty-one percent of the patients had an excellent (32%) or good (49%) result whereas 19% (15% fair and 4% poor) were considered unsatisfactory. Those with early impingement findings and partial rotator cuff tears were likely to experience a satisfactory outcome. Patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears were less likely to experience a successful result (55%). Workmen's compensation cases had a satisfactory outcome in 74%, with a predominance of good over excellent results. Excluding those with full-thickness tears and work-related injuries, a satisfactory outcome was achieved in 90%. Arthroscopic subacromial decompression for mechanical impingement of the rotator cuff is a technically demanding procedure requiring appropriate skills as well as careful preoperative treatment and evaluation. For individuals in whom conservative measures fail and who meet stringent criteria, namely, a largely intact rotator cuff and a non-work-related injury, a highly reliable and satisfying outcome can be anticipated by both patient and surgeon.