Shoulder decompression surgery
Arthoscopic subacromial decompression (acromioplasty)
An arthroscopic or keyhole operation to treat pain related to shoulder impingement and improve your range of movement
What is shoulder impingement?
Subacromial decompression is a surgical procedure to remove excess bone and increase the space between the tendons and the acromion (point of the shoulder blade).
Need to know
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What happens during a shoulder decompression? icon plus
Subacromal decompression is usually done as an arthroscopic (keyhole) procedure using general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will make a few small cuts on your shoulder, allowing them to insert a tiny surgical camera called an arthroscope.
The arthroscope helps them to see inside your shoulder joint, while they use specialised surgical instruments to shave away excess bone (bone spur) and repair tendon damage.
Your surgeon may also need to remove a small portion of bone where your shoulder and collarbone meet (distal clavicle). The whole procedure takes around an hour. -
How to prepare for shoulder surgery icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They will let you know how to prepare, including how long you should avoid eating and drinking beforehand.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After shoulder surgery icon plus
You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. You'll need to wear the sling for a few days afterwards to help stabilise your shoulder as it heals. It can take several months to make a full recovery.
Your consultant will let you know what to expect and how to care for your shoulder. They'll give you advice on pain management and let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.
They may also recommend physiotherapy exercises to help you improve your flexibility and regain strength in your shoulder.
Our shoulder consultants
Our locations
From complex shoulder surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344