Arthroscopic treatment of subacromial impingement syndrom

Background. Subacromial impingement syndrome is a frequently seen disorder of the shoulder, however it is also often misdiagnosed. The aim of the study was the assessment of the clinical value of the arthroscopic subacromial decompression.
Material and methods. From January 1999 to December 2002 sixty five patients were included to our study. The main complaints of patients was severe, long-lasting and progressing pain of the shoulder. Sixty one patients had failed conservative treatment (physical therapy, NSAID's, multiple steriod injections). Average duration of pain before surgery was 20 months, ranged from 1 to 50 months. On examination, restricted range of abduction and narrowing of subacromial space to 5 mm (3-8 mm) on plain AP X-ray view were found. The patients were followed up after six and twelve months after surgery.
Results. Finally, we noted full range of movement and absence of pain in neutral shoulder position in 38 patients. Four patients presented persistent pain while moving their shoulders, but no resting pain. In two cases pain relief was achieved but shoulder joint ROM restriction by 20 degrees abduction and 10 degrees external rotation.
Conclusions. Based on performed study we conclude that treatment emploing arthroscopic subacromial decompression is a valuable method, allowing to achieve very good outcomes and to introduce early rehabilitation.