Endoscopic Removal of a Scapular Osteophyte Using Scapulothoracic Arthroscopy

Abstract

This article describes the removal of a scapular osteophyte from the subscapular space by scapulothoracic arthroscopy. The endoscopic technique allows a gentle approach to the subscapular space without causing a large amount of surgical trauma and therefore leads to good cosmetic and functional results.

Novel technique for scapulothoracic arthroscopy: A case report of the application of intraoperative 3D imaging

“…These changes may be asymptomatic until there is an injury (directly to the scapula or indirectly to the superior shoulder suspensory complex) or other causes, for instance: tumor, inflammation, muscle atrophy, nerve palsy [11] . The following anatomical changes in the scapula are frequently reported in the literature: Luschka tubercule, depth of the subscapular fossa, thickness of superior and inferior angles [11] , rhinoceros-horn-like projection [12] , osteophyte [13] .…”

“…In addition, Bell [8] proposed using a special portal to avoid resecting too much. Lycke [13] recommended establishing an additional superior portal for better visualization if the pathology is located in the superomedial angle. M. Saper [15] advised rotating the working and viewing portals to get a better visualization to achieve the necessary resection.…”

Editorial Commentary: Arthroscopy of the Scapulothoracic Joint for Treatment of Snapping Scapula Syndrome—Minimum 2-Year Results in a Large Series, a Long-Awaited Publication

“…The technical parts of scapulothoracic arthroscopy together with videos have recently been reported by Lycke et al 3 for the removal of osteophytes and by Saper et al 4 for bursectomy. An important question is, How do we know which patients to operate on?…”