Beach chair position with instrumental distraction for arthroscopic and open shoulder surgeries.

Arthroscopy is widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder disorders. It can be performed in the lateral or sitting position (beach chair). Both have advantages and disadvantages. We present a simple, inexpensive, versatile, portable, continuous distraction device for arthroscopic, combined, and open shoulder surgeries in the sitting position that offers the advantages of the 2 classic positions without their disadvantages. The device was used in 101 consecutive procedures: 61 rotator cuff repairs (29 arthroscopic, 18 mini-open, 14 open), 4 two-part humeral fractures, 1 septic arthritis, 3 calcifying tendinitis, 9 capsular releases, 8 Bankart repairs (6 arthroscopic, 2 open), 13 acromioplasty and biceps tenotomy, and 2 superior labrum anteroposterior repairs. Our experience with this device is extremely positive. We have had no complications and have used it for shoulder arthroscopy, open, and combined surgeries. We have also not had difficulty visualizing or approaching the glenohumeral and subacromial spaces in the treatment of shoulder disorders. It is a safe, practical, easy, and fast set up. Its versatility makes it particularly helpful for the less experienced arthroscopic surgeon.