Short-term outcomes after arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Shoulder Arthroscopy

Background:

• Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly impacts shoulder function.
• Short-term outcomes of arthroscopic capsular release for frozen shoulder are not well-documented.
• Immediate functional improvements and return to normal function post-release require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the short-term temporal outcomes of arthroscopic capsular release for idiopathic adhesive capsulitis.
• To determine the immediacy of pain reduction and functional recovery after arthroscopic release.
• To assess the progression of shoulder function and range of motion postoperatively.

Main Methods:

• 140 shoulders in 133 patients with idiopathic adhesive capsulitis underwent arthroscopic capsular release.
• A single surgeon performed the procedure in a day surgery setting.
• Patient-reported pain and function (Likert scales) and examiner-assessed strength and range of motion were recorded preoperatively and at 1, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively.

Main Results:

• Arthroscopic capsular release led to immediate improvements in pain, function, and range of motion (P < .0001).
• External rotation improved from 21° to 76° at 1 week post-surgery.
• Severe pain reported by 38% pre-surgery decreased to 30% at 1 week and 2% at 24 weeks; no complications occurred.

Conclusions:

• Arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis yields significant short-term improvements in pain, range of motion, and function.
• Immediate postoperative benefits are observed within the first week.
• Continued functional gains are noted at 6, 12, and 24 weeks post-procedure.