ORIGINAL ARTICLES   

Minerva Ortopedica e Traumatologica 2001 December;52(6):245-50

Copyright © 2001 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: Italian

Preoperative study with “outlet-view” radiographic projection in 150 patients undergoing shoulder impingement syndrome surgery

Fornara P., Caniggia M., Ceffa R., Desayeux S., Mordente G.

Background. The study aimed to evaluate the utility of ''outlet-view'' radiography when planning the management of impingement conflict. This projection highlights acromial morphology and deformity and the consequent reduction of the supraspinatus.
Methods. Based on acromial morphology in the outlet projection, 150 patients with impingiment syndrome or grade 1 or 2 lesions to the rotator cuffs according to Ellman were divided into two groups: Group 1 - 80 patients with flat acromion underwent removal of the acromiocoracoid ligament; Group 2 - 70 patients with a curved or hooked acromion underwent anterior acromioplasty according to Neer.
Results. The results were assessed using Constant's scoring system with a mean follow-up of 18 months. In Group 1 there were 18 optimal cases (22.5%), 59 good (73.8%), 2 satisfactory (2.5%) and 1 poor (1.2%); in Group 2 there were 14 optimal cases (20%), 54 good (77.2%), 1 satisfactory (1.4%) and 1 poor (1.4%).
Conclusions. The outlet view projection allows a precise identification of acromial morphology and any consequent reduction of the subacromial space, thus orienting the choice of the type of surgery.