ARTHROSCOPIC SUBACROMIAL DECOMPRESSION VERSUS OPEN ACROMIOPLASTY - A 2-YEAR FOLLOW-UP-STUDY

In a prospective study, 20 patients were randomly selected for either open acromioplasty according to Neer or for arthroscopic subacromial d ecompression (ASD). All suffered from shoulder impingement for which c onservative treatment had been unsuccessful. Functional results after two years were assessed. All patients were assessed radiographically t o visualize recurrence of subacromial osteophytes. Functional results in the arthroscopic group are good and similar to those after open sur gery. Both methods seem to result in adequate subacromial decompressio n, including bone resection. The arthroscopic method also has in its f avor less operating time, earlier restoration of active range of motio n, and reduction in time away from work.