Subacromial Decompression

Patients experiencing pain or discomfort when raising their arms may need to undergo a type of shoulder surgery known as subacromial decompression in Las Vegas. Subacromial DecompressionThis procedure works to treat shoulder instability and repair tears around the shoulder. It is typically performed with an arthroscopic technique, making it a minimally invasive procedure.

Reasons to Undergo a Subacromial Decompression Procedure in Las Vegas

When the rotator cuff tendon is pinched between the head of the humerus and other areas, you may need to undergo a subacromial decompression procedure to restore mobility and correct any instability. This procedure is often necessary when physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications have not helped to improve the problem.

This procedure can be very effective for treating:

Labral tears

Instability of the shoulder

Inflammation when the bones and tendons rub against each other

Limited range of motion or mobility

How the Subacromial Decompression Procedure is Performed

This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on the patient. Your surgeon will make a set of small incisions around the shoulder to access the joint and insert a small video camera to visualize the shoulder structures. The surgeon will then use a set of micro-instruments to remove enough bone to release the tendons of the rotator cuff so that they glide freely. Incisions are closed with a suture and the patient will be fitted with a sling.

Recovering from a Subacromial Decompression Procedure

Patients will wear a sling for a certain time after the procedure and will be given directions to start physical therapy even if pre-operative pain does not improve immediately. Physical therapy helps to restore movement and proper functioning of the shoulder joint after surgery. Mild analgesics are usually enough to control the pain after this procedure. Since this is a minimally-invasive alternative to shoulder surgery, there is minimal scarring and patients can look forward to a fast recovery.