[Outcome of endoscopic subacromial decompression operation in tendinitis and partial rupture of the rotator cuff]

The series of this article compares 148 patients with chronic tendinitis (group I) and 28 patients with significant partial-thickness tears (group II) of the rotator cuff managed with arthroscopic debridement and acromioplasty.

All patients were evaluated by an independent observer with a mean follow-up of 26.5 (12-51) respectively 23.4 (12-50) months using the Constant-score, the ASES-score and a visual analog scale. The mean age in group I was 48.5 (25.4-71) and in group II 56.1 (33.2-80.6) years.

In group I 127 patients (86%) and in group II 17 patients (62%) were satisfied at latest follow-up (p < 0.05). Concerning the exclusively subjective ASES-score with a maximum of 100 points group I had an average of 78.8 and group II of 61.6 points (p = 0.0019). According to the criteria of Constant group I scored with a mean of 81 points for the operated shoulder and 91.6 points for the non-operated side and group II with either 65.2 points and 89.9 points (p = 0.0036).

Recognizing these results a thorough activity-related preoperative discussion with the patient about the treatment options for significant partial-thickness cuff ruptures should be performed.