Calcifications in the cuff: take it or leave it?

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether removing the calcifications in the rotator cuff tendons during surgical subacromial decompression improves outcome in patients with calcific tendonitis. Methods: Two groups of 20 patients with a subacromial impingement syndrome and cuff calcifications were operated on. In group A, patients had an anterolateral acromioplasty according to Neer with excision of calcifications. In group B, the same procedure was performed without additional excision of calcifications. After a minimum follow-up of 3 years the patients were assessed with the disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand score (DASH), the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, measurements of range of motion (ROM) in all planes, and satisfaction with treatment. Results: The results for the DASH score, ROM, VAS and satisfaction with treatement showed no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The results of our study suggest that removal of calcific deposits with anterolateral acromioplasty does not influence patient outcome. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal surgical treatment for calcific tendonitis.