Acromioplasty

This leaflet will advise you about the rotator cuff procedure and outline the recovery of your shoulder following surgery. 

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Anatomy of the subacromial space 

The space between the bony arch (acromion) above the shoulder joint bone and the head of the humerus (ball part of the shoulder joint) of your arm bone (humerus) has narrowed. This is often due to new bone forming on the underside of the acromion due to tendon damage. This means the tendons of the shoulder rub on the underside of the bony arch during shoulder movements and become irritated and inflamed. 

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The operation 

The operation aims to increase the space between the shoulder and acromion. This is done by removing some tissue and shaving away some of the bone on the underside and lateral side of the acromion. This operation is usually combined with another procedure such as removing the biceps tendon or repairing the rotator cuff tendons. 

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Potential complications 

Unfortunately any operation has a chance of having a complication. Fortunately the chance of having a complication is small (<5%) and having a significant complication that will have a negative effect on the outcome of surgery is even smaller (<1%). The following are specific complications associated with an acromioplasty: 

Stiffness this happens in the majority of patients to a greater or lesser extent but usually does not slow recovery. You should regain a full functional range of movement between 3 and 6 months after surgery. Sometimes stiffness can be severe and associated with pain, and take up to a year to resolve - this is called a "frozen shoulder". 

Infection superficial wound infections are more common and can often be treated with a short course of antibiotics. Deep infections within the joint are rare but would require you to come into hospital to have the shoulder washed out and go on intravenous antibiotics 

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The shoulder joint after surgery (this may change if this procedure is combined with another) 

Total recovery period: 2 months 

Return to driving: 4-6 weeks 

Return to work: Desk based job - 2 to 4 weeks Manual job - 2 months 

Return to sports: From 6 weeks 

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