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Subacromial Decompression (Acromioplasty)
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Indications for operation: Frozen Shoulder (adhesive
capsulitis) |
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Subacromial Impingement (painful arc) unresponsive to treatment |
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Rotator cuff rupture (repaired at same time) |
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ACJ arthritis (treated at same time) |
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Anaesthetic:
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General Anaesthetic with an interscalene block. (Fully asleep with
a local anaesthetic injection into the side of the neck will numb the nerves to
the shoulder for post-operative pain relief)
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Operation type:
Arthroscopic |
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Incisions: |
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3 ½ cm incisions will be made in the shoulder, one to the back, one at
the side and one at the front of the shoulder.
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Procedure:
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The gleno-humeral (shoulder) joint will be inspected first followed by the subacromial
bursa and the rotator cuff. A soft tissue shaving device will be used to clear any
scar tissue away. A bone-shaving device will be used to shape the underside of the
acromion (the bone at the top of the shoulder) and remove any excess bone.
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A small tube (catheter) will be inserted into the joint at the end of the procedure.
This is connected to a pump which will place local anaesthetic into the joint for
48 hours afterwards.
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Wound Closure:
Small butterfly paper stitches will be used to close the wounds. |
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Dressings:
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Elastoplast dressings will be placed over the top of the paper stitches
and an adhesive bandage over the top of this.
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Immediate aftercare: |
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A sling will be placed on the arm and it may feel numb for
the rest of the day. You can go home when you feel comfortable and will be given
instructions on what to do next.
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