[Arthroscopic resection of the shoulder joint (Mumford operation)]

Based on results of anatomical studies, we established an arthroscopic procedure to resect all degenerative changes within the joint without endangering the stabilizing structures. Since November 1989 we operated on 26 patients with this technique. There were no major complications. The mean score significantly increased from 64.9 (+/- 12.8) to 86.8 (+/- 11.5). Analysis of postoperative x rays revealed an average length of resection of 21.3 mm at the inferior border of the clavicle, of 15.4 mm in the middle, and of 10.2 mm at the superior border of the clavicle. 21 out of 26 patients were completely satisfied and would undergo the same procedure again. In two of the five unsatisfied patients the resected length of the clavicle was insufficient and these patients required open surgery for resection of the remaining bone. Our first experiences are encouraging. The surgical technique is standardized and reproducible. The short time results score not worse compared to the open conventional technique. With the 2 to 4 year long term follow up we have to prove, whether maintaining the passive stabilizers of the joint improves the long term results better than the open technique.