Classification and Treatment of Acromion Types

Implications for Treatment

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests that routine acromioplasty is not necessary during rotator cuff repair, even in the presence of type II or III acromion 1
Level II studies have demonstrated that there are no significant differences in functional outcomes between patients who underwent rotator cuff repair with or without acromioplasty, regardless of acromion type 1
The simple presence of a type II or III acromion does not justify acromioplasty, as evidence does not show clinically important benefits 2

Standard shoulder radiographs, including anteroposterior and lateral views, as well as an outlet supraescapular or Rockwood view, are recommended to evaluate acromial morphology 3
Non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound are appropriate for evaluating associated soft tissue pathology when radiographs are inconclusive 3