Arthroscopic “Panorama” View of the Subacromial Space via Deltoid Fascia Release

Proper visualization is of paramount importance during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. We propose a technique that significantly improves the visualization of the rotator cuff when viewing from the anterolateral or lateral portals. This "panorama" view is obtained by a release of the deep layer of the deltoid fascia, which in turn increases the space between the humerus and the deltoid muscle. This release increases the volume of the subdeltoid bursa, secondarily increasing the field of view of the subacromial space with the camera viewing from the anterolateral or lateral portals. This technical note describes a new technique useful in obtaining an excellent view of the subacromial space proving very useful in both the diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff pathology.