ARTHROSCOPIC MUMFORD PROCEDURE

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 operat ed on 26 patients with this technique. There were no major complicatio ns. The mean score significantly increased from 64.9 (+/- 12.8) to 86. 8 (+/- 11.5). Analysis of postoperative x rays revealed an average len gth 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 c lavicle. 21 out of 26 patients were completely satisfied and would und ergo the same procedure again. In two of the five unsatisfied patients the resected length of the clavicle was unsufficient and these patien ts required open surgery for resection of the remaining bone. Our firs t experiences are encouraging. The surgical technique is standardized and reproducible. The short time results score not worse compared to t he open conventional technique. With the 2 to 4 year long term follow up we have to prove, whether maintaining the passive stabilizers of th e joint improves the long term results better than the open technique.