Background
Frozen shoulder, first described by Codman in 1934, is the third most common cause of pain in the musculoskeletal system. It can be classified as either primary or secondary. The long period of pain and disability has been the reason for many different types of intervention. Various interventions, including analgesics, steroids, distension, physical therapy, manipulation under anesthesia, and arthroscopy or open surgery, were reported with mixed results. There is controversy in the literature as to the optimal method of release.
Objectives
The aim of our study was to assess the effectiveness of arthroscopic rotator interval release in patients with frozen shoulder.
Patients and methods
Rotator interval release was performed for 40 shoulders in 39 patients (17 men and 22 women). The mean age of the patients was 48.5 years. The right side was affected in 25 patients, the left side was affected in 13 patients, and one patient had bilateral affection. The dominant side was affected in 30 patients.
Results
The mean duration of follow-up was 6 months. With respect to range of motion, the mean of flexion improved by 100°, the mean of external rotation at 0° improved by 70°, the mean of abduction improved by 120°, and the mean of internal rotation at 0° increased by seven points according to the constant shoulder score. There was a marked improvement in pain postoperatively; 32 patients had no pain, whereas seven patients with eight shoulders had mild pain.
Conclusion
Arthroscopic rotator interval release is a simple and effective method for treating patients with frozen shoulder, allowing for early postoperative rehabilitation.