Report on efficacy and safety of shoulder arthroscopy in Spain

AQuAS performed a systematic review of the literature, whose objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of this procedure. Studies with the most significant evidence, dating from 2004 and later, have been searched for in the following databases: National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, Database of Abstracts, TRIP Database, National Health Service Evidence, National Health Service Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, Medline, Scopus, The Cochrane Library Plus, ISI Web of Knowledge and Reviews of Effects. More than 140 references have been screened (146 to be exact); one (1) clinical practice guideline, two (2) meta-analyses, 32 systematic reviews, seven (7) systematic reviews and meta-analysis, and one (1) RCT were selected.

Conclusion

The arthroscopic procedures have demonstrated effectiveness (in terms of functional scores and patient satisfaction) for the surgical treatment of anterior, posterior and multidirectional glenohumeral instability, rotator cuff lesions, arthroscopic acromioplasty, arthroscopic surgery of SLAP (Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior) lesions, glenohumeral arthritis and adhesive capsulitis. Despite, the results were not conclusive regarding the decrease in the rates of recurrence. To assess the intervention safety, the factors related to the development of glenohumeral chondrolysis, the most significant adverse effect of arthroscopy were evaluated. The development of this pathology has no association with any particular diagnosis; in fact, the main risk factors were the mechanical, thermic and chemical procedures used during the intervention.

See the full report in Spanish (with summary in English) here.

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