Procedure for Arthroscopic Debridement of Calcium Deposits

Arthroscopic Debridement of Calcium Deposits

Definition: It is the process by which abnormal calcium deposits are removed from the tendons of the muscles using an arthroscope (instrument to view the joint).

Calcific Tendonitis

Calcific tendonitis is mainly seen in age group 40-60 years. Tendonitis means pain and swelling of the tendons; and when the cause is buildup of deposits of calcium it is called calcific tendonitis.

The common sites are:

1. Shoulder joint: Calcium deposits in shoulder lead to shoulder tendonitis-giving rise to pain and swelling. It is known as rotator cuff tendinitis since it involves the muscles, tendons and bursa surrounding the shoulder joint.
2. Other less common sites being knee joint, wrist joint and hip joint.

Causes of Calcific Tendonits:

There are different theories to explain the cause; below are the two important ones:

1. Regenerative Calcification: Wear and tear because of old age leads to healing by calcium deposition.
2. Reactive Calcification: Clear understanding as to why it occurs is not known; but in simple words calcium crystals deposit over the tendons.

Symptoms of Shoulder Tendonitis

1. Pain, swelling and redness around the joints
2. Raising the arm may be painful
3. Stiffness and weakness of the shoulder
4. Pain may even awaken the patient from sleep

Diagnosis

The deposits are very clearly visible on X ray. Ultrasound can also be helpful.

Treatment

Treating it is a skillful work however, the results are encouraging for the patients. Some of the important treatment steps include -

1. Drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Injections into the joint to aspirate out the fluid when there is severe swelling.
3. Shoulder tendonitis exercises: A physical therapist will guide you as to how to do exercises at home to prevent recurrences and relieve pain.
4. Shock wave therapy: Shock wave pulses are used to break down the deposits.
5. If there is no relief and the condition worsens, surgery is advised.

Arthroscopic Debridement of Calcium Deposits

Procedure:

• Small incisions are made over the shoulder joint allowing the arthroscope and other surgical instruments to enter the joint.
• Using the arthroscope the surgeon locates the calcium deposits and removes them.
• The area is rinsed and cleaned.

Care and follow up after surgery:

• It may take around 6-8 weeks for complete recovery after arthroscopic debridement procedure.
• Step by step physical therapy for strengthening the muscles is vital.
• It takes around 3-4 weeks for a patient to move the joint freely.
• The doctor may give a sling to support the joint for few days.
• Movements should be within the intensity range as suggested by the physical therapist to avoid trauma.
• Alternate measures like ice, electrical stimulation, massages to relive pain can be used only if suggested by the doctor.