[Arthroscopic capsular release in frozen shoulder syndrome]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To evaluate the results of arthroscopic capsular release for the treatment of severe frozen shoulder syndrome. MATERIAL Between 2006 and 2008, 27 patients with severe frozen shoulder syndrome were treated by arthroscopic capsular release. The average age of the patients was 54 years (range, 34 to 75), 15 were men and 12 were women. The right shoulder was operated on more frequently (16 patients). The average pre-operative flexion was 73 degrees (range, 10 degrees to 150 degrees ) and pre-operative abduction was 56 degrees (10 degrees to 140 degrees ). The average Constant score was 35 points. METHODS With the patient in a lateral recumbent position, arthroscopic release of the joint capsule is performed with the Mitek VAPR 3 radiofrequency system, using a hook or an LPS electrode. The rotator interval, coracohumeral ligament, superior and middle glenohumeral ligaments and anterior part of the inferior glenohumeral ligament are gradually released, as well as the anterior glenohumeral joint capsule along its full width at the anterior rim of the labrum.To avoid damage to the axillary nerve, the axillary part of the joint capsule is released along the edge of the glenoid cavity. When internal rotation in abduction still remains restricted, release is extended to the posterior glenohumeral joint capsule.The procedure also involves exploration of the subacromial space and, if necessary, subacromial bursectomy or acromioplasty. Subsequently, the range of motion after release is tested and, when necessary, the remaining fibres of the joint capsule are disintegrated by careful manipulation (redress). The surgery is followed by analgesic and rehabilitation therapy. RESULTS All treated patients reported an improved range of motion. The average post-operative flexion and abduction extended to 160 degrees and 155 degrees, respectively, and 23 patients gained the motion range necessary for normal shoulder function.The average Constant score was 80.3 points and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score was 28.6 points. When using the school marking system, the average result evaluation was 1.75. All patients were satisfied with the outcome and were willing to undergo surgery on the other side if need be. No complications were recorded. DISCUSSION Therapy for frozen shoulder can be conservative or surgical. Most of the cases can be managed by correct conservative treatment. In accordance with the current literature data, we are using arthroscopic capsular release in resistant cases. This technique allows us to release contracted structures without the risk of iatrogenic injury and offers possibilities for the treatment of co-existing lesions. In the majority of patients this procedure can remedy their complaints, although the affected shoulder joint rarely remains asymptomatic. The aim of this approach is to accelerate the treatment of this disability; the long-term results are similar to those of conservative therapy. CONCLUSIONS Arthroscopic capsular release is the method of choice for the treatment of frozen shoulder syndrome in patients who have failed to respond to conservative therapy. It provides marked improvement in the range of motion and is associated with a minimum of post-operative complications. However, some patients may complain of persisting discomfort in the joint treated. Key words: frozen shoulder, arthroscopy, capsular release.