Five-Year outcomes of Arthroscopic Capsular Release for Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder in Patients with Type I Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: We evaluated the medium-term functional outcome of patients with type I diabetes mellitus who have undergone arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis of their shoulders. Methods: We identified 21 patients who were operated between 2000 and 2008. Fourteen (67%) patients completed the review. Eleven (79%) were male and three (21%) were female. Results: The mean (range) duration of symptoms was 2.7 years (1 year to 5 years). Mean (range) age at the time of surgery was 50.6 years (38 years to 66 years). The mean (range) follow-up period was 59 months (22 months to 99 months). The mean ± SD ranges of movement of the operated shoulders at the final review were: forward flexion 138.8 ± 17.9°, abduction 138.1 ± 34.2° and external rotation 45.6 ± 10.3°, with internal rotation to T10 (±3 levels). The mean ± SD Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 20.8 ± 15.3, visual analogue scale for pain was 1.7 ± 2.1 and Constant score was 82.6 ± 11.9. All patients considered that the operation had offered them significant improvement. There was no perioperative neurovascular injury, infection or fracture. Conclusion: Arthroscopic capsular release is a safe and effective treatment option for adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder in patients with type I diabetes mellitus. Good pain relief and improved shoulder function were reported at a mean of 5 years postoperatively.