Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression is done by keyhole surgery. Subacromial Decompression invloves releasing the ligement from the front of the acromion and trimming off the undersurface of the acromion. This allows the tendon to move more freely and thus break the cycle of rubbing and swelling.
What is Subacromial Decompression?
The subacromial area is between the top of your upper arm bone (humerus) and the small bone attached to the top of your shoulder blade (acromion). In this area there is a small, fluid-filled sac (bursa). Certain movements, for example repetitive overhead activities such as golf, can cause irritation and swelling of the bursa over time. This is called bursitis. These movements can also cause swelling of the rotator cuff tendon. This is called tendonitis. Bony spurs can form on the shoulder blade as it rubs against the humerus. Bony spurs are formed when a bone overgrows and are known as osteophytes.
The swollen bursa reduces the amount of space between the shoulder blade and rotator cuff tendon. This squeezes the tendon, which can cause pain and restrict your movement. Subacromial decompression opens up this space by changing the shape of the shoulder blade and removing any bony spurs. The operation is usually performed using a narrow, tube-like, telescopic camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted into the joint through a small cut. This camera is linked to a monitor, allowing your surgeon to see inside the shoulder joint. Arthroscopic surgery is generally safe and has few complications