An arthroscopic surgical treatment called acromioplasty, also referred to as subacromial decompression, is performed on the acromion, the top of the shoulder blade or the portion of the shoulder blade that extends beyond the shoulder joint. During the shoulder acromioplasty procedure, a little portion of the acromion’s surface that is endangering the tendon tissue is removed.
Severe cases of impingement syndrome, a disorder brought on by damage to the rotator cuff muscles and frequently observed in elderly adults, are treated by arthroscopic acromioplasty. The tendons of the rotator cuff muscle in the impingement syndrome become irritated and inflamed when they pass through the subacromial space, the passageway below the acromion. This may cause discomfort, weakness, and loss of shoulder mobility. Pain may be felt when doing certain movements, such as reaching overhead and behind the back to put on a coat or top, for example.
In an arthroscopic acromioplasty, the shoulder is covered with a number of tiny incisions. A video camera and an arthroscope are used by the surgeon to confirm subacromial impingement. The surgeon next cuts or removes a piece of bone from the underside of the acromion in order to relieve pressure on the trapped tendon or bursa and to permit the shoulder joint to move freely. At the time of this operation, any further ailments, such as a rotator cuff tear or slap tear, are also treated (e.g. rotator cuff repair).
Immediately following surgery, impingement syndrome symptoms typically experience a substantial improvement. Sometimes it could take a few months for the symptoms to go away. The patient must adhere to the whole course of physiotherapy for full shoulder recovery and rehab.