BACKGROUNDThe deltoid contracture is an uncommon disorder. Long-standing contracture produces winged scapula, abduction and extension contracture of the shoulder. Surgical release has been considered the treatment of choice. However, the method of approach has not been well defined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of arthroscopic release of the deltoid contracture.

METHODSA retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate the results of arthroscopic release in six patients (seven shoulders) who had a contracture of the deltoid muscle. All patients had arthroscopic release. The abduction-contracture and horizontal-adduction angle was measured after operation. The average duration of follow-up was 16 months (range, from 4 to 41 months).

RESULTSThe preoperative abduction contracture resolved completely in three shoulders. Two had a residual abduction contracture of 5° to 7° and two had a poor result with 15° abduction-contracture angle. The average postoperative abduction-contracture angle was 6° (range, 0° to 15°). The preoperative horizontal-adduction contracture was corrected, permitting at least 130° of adduction, in five shoulders. The remaining two shoulders had a postoperative horizontal-adduction angle of 120° and 110°. Overall, the average postoperative horizontal-adduction angle was 130° (range, 110° to 140°).

CONCLUSIONArthroscopic release is an effective surgical technique to treat the deltoid contracture.