Arthroscopic thermal capsulorrhaphy as treatment for the unstable paralytic shoulder

Arthroscopy. 2005 May;21(5):636. doi: 10.1016/j.arthro.2005.02.011.

Abstract

Patients who present with global capsular laxity and glenohumeral instability frequently can be treated successfully with shoulder girdle musculature strengthening exercises and activity modification. When such injury is caused by a paralytic shoulder, a rehabilitation program may not be a viable treatment option. Presented in this article are 3 patients with global capsular laxity and glenohumeral instability as a result of shoulder paralysis. We also describe an arthroscopic technique of thermal capsulorrhaphy. In our experience, arthroscopic thermal capsulorrhaphy used to treat global capsular laxity and glenohumeral instability resulting from a paralytic shoulder has decreased symptoms of shoulder instability and has significantly reduced shoulder pain.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Arthroscopy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Humerus
  • Hyperthermia, Induced
  • Joint Capsule / surgery*
  • Joint Instability / rehabilitation
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Male
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Shoulder Injuries*
  • Shoulder Joint / surgery*
  • Sutures