Abstract
87 patients (51 male, 36 female; mean age 57, range 30 to 82) underwent arthroscopic subacromial decompression (SAD) and were followed up for one year. We calculated the ASES, the Constant, the DASH Disability/ Symptom, and the SF-36 Physical Function scores.
All the scores improved throughout the follow-up period, although the SF36 score showed less marked improvement. Comparing the preoperative and one year values there were significant improvements at one year (p < 0.001) for the three upper-limb-specific scoring systems (ASES, Constant and DASH), and for the SF36, but less so (p = 0.001). Comparing the 6 months and one year scores there were significant improvements in the ASES, Constant and DASH scores, but not in the SF36 score. This suggests that improvement may still be continuing at one year.
No significant differences in the postoperative scores for the four acromion operative appearance groups (normal, minor scuffing, marked damage, bare bone areas) were found, or for the operative cuff appearance groups (normal, minor scuffing, partial tear, full thickness tear, massive cuff tear).
We also asked for the patients’ assessment of their outcome at one year, using a satisfaction visual analogue scale (VAS), and two category selection questions relating to satisfaction and to perceived room for further improvement respectively. Patients were coded as successes or failures on their responses to the VAS and the two questions. There seems to be an association with cuff appearance and success or failure as determined by the response to the room for improvement question. More specifically, this difference seems to be due the infraspinatus. A normal infraspinatus is associated with a successful outcome as perceived by the patient.
In conclusion, with SAD recovery may not be complete at one year. The three limb-specific scores are equally useful in monitoring progress, whereas the more general SF36 score is less useful. The state of the acromion or cuff does not have an effect on outcome as measured by the commonly used scores. The appearance of the infraspinatus may be predictive of success as measured by the patient.
These abstracts were prepared by Mr Cormac Kelly. Correspondence should be addressed to him c/o British Orthopaedic Association, Royal College of Surgeons, 35-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN.
