Objective:To observe the arthroscopic treatment for the calcific tendinitis of supraspinatus tendon

postoperative rehabili- tation

clinical effects and complications. Methods:From the September of 2005 to the February of 2007

9 cases (7 subacute cases and 2 acute cases)of calcific tendonitis of supraspinatus tendon were treated with arthroscope. After general anaesthesia

the patients lay on unaffected side. Shoulder joint and mucous bursa of infraacromion were observed with arthroscope through posterior portal to study the anatomic dangerous factors of approach. The pathologic change was treated with arthroscopic survey through anterior and superioranterior portals: calcific lesion were debrided; tear supraspinatus tendon were freshed and healed by themselves for minor tears or otherwise repaired for other tears

while uncalcific synovial membrane should be protected. Functional exercise was applied imme- diately after operation. The relief of pain and the recovery of shoulder joint were observed. The complication of operation was dis- cussed. Results:Punctiform white calcific deposition adhered to cartilage of joints and synovial membrane which were with mild hyperemia and swelling

especially on scapula caverna cartilage. Calcific deposition also adhehered to long head of biceps with tears

the size of which was positively related to the amount of calcific deposition. The shoulder joint could abduct to 90° afte 1 week of operation

and the function of joint returned to normal with the recovery of muscle strength. Followed up for the average of 3 months

all cases presented total pain relief and no complication happened. Conclusion:The arthroscopic treatment for acute or subacute calcific tendinitis of supraspinatus tendon is minimals invasive surgery with less injury

evidently pain relief and less intra-and post-operative complication. Postoperative functional exercises as early as possible is helped to the quick recovery of joint function.