Cryotherapy in the recovery of bursectomy for subacromial pain syndrome. A pragmatic randomized controlled trial.

Most patient will experience pain after arthroscopic debridement of the bursa.
We know from different surgical procedures and earlier investigation of
shoulder surgery that postoperative pain predict final recovery of the
shoulder. By improving our postoperative management of pain we aim to improve
theresults of the operation.
Computer assisted cryotherapy may lead to reduction of experienced pain, and
might be a valueble option (next to to local techniques and the use of
medication). The effect of cryotherapy has been attributed the inhibition of
the inflammatory cascade, and reduction of tissue oedema or hematoma. Using a
computer we are able to cool the shoulder to a more constant temperature at
10-14 degrees Celcius, and thus potentially resulting in a greater effect of
cooling. Unfortunately, it is unknown whether postoperative cryotherapy leads
to reduced pain, early mobilization of the shoulder and improved quality of
life after arthroscopy of the shoulder.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the value of postoperative
cryotherapy on subjective patients-reported pain; shoulder function and quality
of life in patients operated for SAPS .

Randomized clinical trial

Groep A: Computer-assisted cryotherapie
Groep B: Usual Care with subacromial levobupivaicaine 20mL (5mg/mL, 0,5%
chirocaine).

There is a small risk of a comprised circulation of the skin, which may result
in cold urticarea (estimated risk <1%)
Theoretically, there is an elevated risk that a deprived inflammatory cascade
may increase the risk of infection.