Subdeltoid lipomas: a consecutive series of 13 cases

We describe 13 consecutive cases of patients presenting with shoulder mass and limited function, and to whom we formulated a diagnosis of subdeltoid lipoma. Between 2002 and 2010, 14 patients had a diagnosis of subdeltoid lipoma. Of these, one was excluded from this review because of a concomitant cuff tear. Shoulder was evaluated with X-ray, MRI, EMG and pre-/post-operatively with constant score (CS) and subjective shoulder value (SSV). All patients had complete excision of the mass. Minimum follow-up was 12 months. In 14 cases, the lipoma was causing slight pain or discomfort, and in four cases (28.57 %), it was causing limitation of joint movement. EMG showed axillary nerve neuro apraxia in two cases (14.28 %). Preoperative CS and SSV were on average 80 and 80, respectively. At one-year follow-up, CS and SSV were meanly 92 and 95, respectively (p = 0.034). No recurrence of the lesion was noted. Subdeltoid lipomas quickly grow up and may cause compression of axillary nerve. Surgery is the treatment of these lesions if symptomatic. After complete excision, subdeltoid lipomas do not recur, and clinical signs disappear. Level of evidence Case series, Level IV.