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Relation between narrowed coracohumeral distance and subscapularis tears
David P Richards1, Stephen S Burkhart, Scot E Campbell
1Institute for Bone and Joint Disorders, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Summary
A torn subscapularis muscle is associated with a significantly narrowed coracohumeral distance. This finding suggests a link between subscapularis pathology and reduced space in the shoulder joint.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Shoulder Anatomy
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- The coracohumeral distance is a measure of the space between the coracoid process and the humeral head.
- Subscapularis tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction.
- Understanding the relationship between subscapularis pathology and shoulder anatomy is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if a torn subscapularis leads to a narrowed coracohumeral distance.
- To establish a potential correlation between subscapularis tears and reduced coracohumeral space.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study comparing patients with subscapularis tears to a control group.
- Measurement of coracohumeral distance using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Statistical analysis using a Student t test to compare groups.
Main Results:
- Patients with subscapularis tears had an average coracohumeral distance of 5.0 mm.
- The control group had an average coracohumeral distance of 10.0 mm.
- A statistically significant narrowing of the coracohumeral distance was observed in the subscapularis tear group.
Conclusions:
- A narrowed coracohumeral distance is significantly associated with subscapularis pathology.
- This finding may have implications for understanding the biomechanics of shoulder impingement and rotator cuff disease.