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Scapulothoracic bursectomy for snapping scapula syndrome.

Gregory P Nicholson1, Monica A Duckworth

  • 1Midwest Orthopaedics and Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, 1725 W. Harrison, Suite 1063, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.

Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|February 15, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Open scapulothoracic bursectomy effectively treats painful snapping scapula syndrome by relieving crepitus and improving shoulder function. This surgical approach consistently provides pain relief and functional gains for patients.

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Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Sports Medicine

Background:

  • Snapping scapula syndrome, characterized by painful scapular crepitus, can be debilitating.
  • Previous treatments, including superomedial angle resections, may not provide adequate relief.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of open scapulothoracic bursectomy for persistent, painful snapping scapula syndrome.
  • To assess functional outcomes and pain reduction following the procedure.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective evaluation of 17 patients undergoing open scapulothoracic bursectomy.
  • Surgical approach involved rhomboid major reflection for access to the scapulothoracic bursa.
  • Assessment of outcomes using American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), and Visual Analog Score (VAS) for pain.

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Main Results:

  • Significant improvements in ASES score (48 to 91), SST (6.2 to 10.1), and VAS pain score (6.1 to 1.0) (P <.05).
  • Symptomatic crepitus was relieved in all patients.
  • Average return to work and sports was 3.5 months.

Conclusions:

  • Open scapulothoracic bursectomy is an effective treatment for snapping scapula syndrome.
  • The procedure allows comprehensive evaluation and treatment of underlying pathology.
  • Consistent pain relief and functional improvement are achieved, restoring patient quality of life.