Filip Verhaegen1, Philippe Debeer1. 1. Department of Development and Regeneration, Division of Orthopaedics, University Hospitals Leuven, Pellenberg, Belgium.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: In this article, we present our operative technique for the removal of rotator cuff calcifications. STEP 1 SETUP AND PATIENT POSITIONING: Perform the shoulder arthroscopy with the patient in the beach-chair position with a shoulder positioner. STEP 2 GLENOHUMERAL INSPECTION: Perform an arthroscopic inspection of the glenohumeral joint to exclude concomitant lesions. STEP 3 SUBACROMIAL INSPECTION AND IDENTIFICATION OF SUBACROMIAL LANDMARKS: Ensure that subacromial placement of the arthroscope and identification of the subacromial landmarks are correct as they are necessary for localization of the rotator cuff calcification. STEP 4 IDENTIFICATION AND REMOVAL OF ROTATOR CUFF CALCIFICATION: With a spinal needle, localize and needle the rotator cuff calcification. RESULTS: In our series, all patients undergoing arthroscopic calcification removal exhibited significant improvement in the Constant score (p = 0.003), Quick DASH (an abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH] questionnaire) (p < 0.001), and Simple Shoulder Test (p < 0.001) at 1 year after the operation8.
INTRODUCTION: In this article, we present our operative technique for the removal of rotator cuff calcifications. STEP 1 SETUP AND PATIENT POSITIONING: Perform the shoulder arthroscopy with the patient in the beach-chair position with a shoulder positioner. STEP 2 GLENOHUMERAL INSPECTION: Perform an arthroscopic inspection of the glenohumeral joint to exclude concomitant lesions. STEP 3 SUBACROMIAL INSPECTION AND IDENTIFICATION OF SUBACROMIAL LANDMARKS: Ensure that subacromial placement of the arthroscope and identification of the subacromial landmarks are correct as they are necessary for localization of the rotator cuff calcification. STEP 4 IDENTIFICATION AND REMOVAL OF ROTATOR CUFF CALCIFICATION: With a spinal needle, localize and needle the rotator cuff calcification. RESULTS: In our series, all patients undergoing arthroscopic calcification removal exhibited significant improvement in the Constant score (p = 0.003), Quick DASH (an abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH] questionnaire) (p < 0.001), and Simple Shoulder Test (p < 0.001) at 1 year after the operation8.
Authors: Jan K G Louwerens; Inger N Sierevelt; Ruud P van Hove; Michel P J van den Bekerom; Arthur van Noort Journal: J Shoulder Elbow Surg Date: 2015-04-11 Impact factor: 3.019