[Periarthritis humeroscapularis (PHS). Indications, technique and outcome of radiotherapy].

BACKGROUND

Radiation treatment for patients with acute or subacute tendonitis or bursitis of the shoulder once commonplace has been mostly supplanted by antiinflammatory drug treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

106 patients with clinically evident disease of PHS were treated between January 1987 and May 1991. 73/106 patients had a continuous follow-up. 16/73 patients showed typical symptoms on both shoulders: therefore a total of 89 shoulders were examined in this investigation. A daily dose of 0.5 Gy was given for 3 times a week and a total dose of 3.0 Gy. After 8 weeks a second treatment course was performed. In follow-up the subjective (pain) and objective (limitation of abduction) symptoms were classified in 3 grade scales.

RESULTS

A marked pain reduction and an improved mobility (abduction of at least 20 degrees more than before radiation) could be observed in 72/89 shoulders (81%). 44/89 shoulders (49%) showed an excellent response and were completely free of pain and impairment of motion.

CONCLUSION

Radiotherapy of acute or subacute Periarthritis humeroscapularis is a very effective treatment if radiation starts within the first year of symptoms and if it is supported by physiotherapy.