Arthroscopic subacromial decompression and postoperative management.

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression is the arthroscopic equivalent of a standard open procedure. Although technically demanding, it facilitates early rehabilitation. The results in patients with stage II disease are equal or better than those achieved through open surgery. The procedure is also useful in selected patients with stage III disease in whom pain is the major complaint. Complete rotator cuff tears can be repaired into a bony trough through a small deltoid-splitting incision.