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Sub-Acromioclavicular Decompression Increases the Risk of Postoperative Shoulder Stiffness after Arthroscopic Rotator
Cheng Li1, Zhiling Wang1, Maslah Idiris Ali1
1Department of Orthopedics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China.
Orthopaedic Surgery
|September 28, 2024
Summary
Sub-acromial (SAC) decompression during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair increases the risk of postoperative shoulder stiffness (POSS). Surgeons should avoid unnecessary SAC decompression to prevent POSS in patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Rotator Cuff Repair
Background:
- Sub-acromial (SAC) decompression is frequently performed with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
- The effect of SAC decompression on postoperative shoulder stiffness (POSS) remains controversial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of additional SAC decompression during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on the incidence of POSS.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 155 patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
- POSS defined as restricted shoulder mobility within 6 months postoperatively.
- Evaluated outcomes using ASES, UCLA, and VAS scores; analyzed factors using logistic regression and generalized estimating equations.
Main Results:
- SAC decompression was an independent factor for POSS (p=0.003).
- Patients undergoing SAC decompression showed significantly worse ASES, UCLA, and VAS scores throughout the study duration.
- Significant differences in ASES, UCLA, and VAS scores were noted at the 3-month follow-up.
Conclusions:
- SAC decompression during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is associated with an increased risk of POSS.
- Avoidance of unnecessary SAC decompression is recommended to mitigate the risk of POSS.

