Publication:

Clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic subcoracoid decompression for idiopathic coracoid impingement, a stepped approach

Background Idiopathic subcoracoid impingement is considered now as a well-established cause of anterior shoulder pain. There are multiple techniques reported for management of subcoracoid impingement. Open decompression and reattachment of conjoint tendon as well as arthroscopic resection of coracoid tip. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of arthroscopic stepwise approach for management of idiopathic coracoid impingment.

Methods This prospective therapeutic case series study included 26 consecutive patients suffering from anterior shoulder pain and were diagnosed as subcoracoid impingement. All cases were evaluated preoperatively and followed up for 12 months after surgery both clinically and radiologically. Arthroscopic subcoracoid decompression, coracoplasty and arthroscopic repair of partial subscapularis tear if present were done for all cases.

Results The mean age at the time of surgery was 45.3±5.4years. At the final follow up, the mean VAS score improved significantly to 0.8±0.8points postoperatively (p<0.01). The mean Constant score improved significantly to 87.8±7.8 at the final follow-up (p<0.001). The mean UCLA score improved significantly to 32.1±2.4 at the end of follow-up (P<0.001)

Conclusions Coracoid impingement should be in mind when evaluating any patient with anterior shoulder pain. The arthroscopic management in form of bone, bursal and tendon procedures (triple attack) is a good treatment to relieve clinical symptoms with excellent patient reported outcomes.