Are adhesions possible after subacromial decompression arthroscopic surgery?

Yes, adhesions are possible after subacromial decompression arthroscopic surgery.

Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form between tissues and organs after surgery. They can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. While adhesions can occur after any type of surgery, they are more common after surgeries that involve cutting and manipulation of tissue, such as subacromial decompression.

In subacromial decompression surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions in the shoulder and inserts a camera and surgical instruments. The surgeon then removes the inflamed tissue and bone spurs that are impinging on the rotator cuff tendons. This creates more space for the tendons to move freely and reduces pain and inflammation.

After surgery, the body's natural healing process begins to form scar tissue around the surgical site. In some cases, this scar tissue can form adhesions between the tendons, muscles, and other tissues in the shoulder. These adhesions can restrict the movement of the tendons and cause pain and stiffness.

The risk of adhesions after subacromial decompression surgery is relatively low, but it can be higher in certain patients, such as those who have a history of scar tissue formation or who undergo extensive surgery. To reduce the risk of adhesions, it is important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully after surgery, including participating in physical therapy to help restore range of motion and prevent scar tissue from forming.