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Arthroscopic release of adhesive capsulitis
Bart M Berghs1, Xavier Sole-Molins, Timothy D Bunker
1Princess Elizabeth Orthopaedic Centre, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter EX2 5DW, Devon, UK.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|March 5, 2004
Summary
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery significantly relieved pain and improved range of motion for patients with adhesive capsulitis. This minimally invasive technique offers rapid functional recovery for this challenging condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is a debilitating condition characterized by significant pain and restricted joint mobility.
- Primary adhesive capsulitis often leads to prolonged periods of discomfort and functional limitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of arthroscopic capsular release in treating primary adhesive capsulitis.
- To assess the impact of the surgical technique on pain, range of motion, and functional outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-five patients with primary adhesive capsulitis underwent arthroscopic capsular release.
- Patients were assessed pre- and post-operatively using visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion measurements, Constant score, and Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in night pain and improvement in VAS pain scores (3.1 to 12.6/15).
- Dramatic increases in passive range of motion: elevation (73.7° to 163°), external rotation (10.6° to 46.8°), and internal rotation (9 levels).
- Mean Constant score improved from 25.3 to 75.5 (91% age/gender adjusted); SF-36 physical summary score indicated function within normal population limits.
Conclusions:
- Arthroscopic capsular release is an effective surgical treatment for primary adhesive capsulitis.
- The procedure provides rapid pain relief and substantial improvements in shoulder function and mobility.
- This technique, based on understanding the pathology, offers a valuable option for managing this protracted condition.