Arthroscopic subacromial decompression versus open acromioplasty.

A random prospective comparison was conducted of 20 patients who underwent arthroscopic subacromial decompression or open acromioplasty as treatment for impingement syndrome. The Neer anterior acromioplasty served as comparison in the evaluation to arthroscopic technique. The comparison shows more rapid rehabilitation and better range of motion in the arthroscopic group. Time of surgery is also shorter for arthroscopy than for the open technique. Arthroscopic subacromial decompression appears to be superior to open acromioplasty as a treatment for impingement syndrome.