Acromioplasty

Acromioplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the shoulder to remove or reshape the acromion. The acromion is a bony extension of the scapula, or shoulder blade, and forms the highest point of the shoulder. Acromioplasty is often performed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tears.

Indications

Acromioplasty is typically indicated for patients who have not responded to conservative treatment methods such as physical therapy, medication, and corticosteroid injections. The procedure is often recommended for patients with:

• Impingement syndrome
• Rotator cuff tears
• Osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint
• Bursitis or tendinitis of the shoulder

Procedure

During an acromioplasty, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the shoulder and inserts an arthroscope, a small camera that allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint. The surgeon then uses small instruments to remove or reshape the acromion, relieving pressure on the rotator cuff tendons.

Recovery

Following the procedure, patients typically undergo a period of physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the shoulder. The duration of recovery can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual patient's health status.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, acromioplasty carries potential risks and complications. These may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels
• Stiffness or loss of mobility in the shoulder
• Recurrence of symptoms

See Also

• Shoulder surgery
• Arthroscopy
• Impingement syndrome
• Rotator cuff tear