Scapulothoracic Endoscopy for the Painful Snapping Scapula: Endoscopic Anatomy and Scapuloplasty Technique

Chronic painful snapping scapula is characterized by inflammation and scarring of 1 or more bursae in the infraserratus space and is often refractory to conservative treatment. Surgical treatment involves excision of the bursae, as well as partial scapulectomy of the superomedial impinging region; both open and endoscopic approaches have been described with good results. Scapulothoracic endoscopy is technically difficult, and the potential complications can be serious. This report describes an endoscopic approach that can be performed with only 2 medial parascapular portals for visualization and instrumentation. The endoscopic anatomy of the infraserratus space is revisited, and 3 anatomic landmarks (serratus anterior, subspinous bursal curtain, and superomedial bony angle) are identified for safe dissection and intraoperative orientation. The surgical field is subdivided into 3 anatomic zones (superomedial space, subspinous space, and scapular bony angle), and the anatomic boundaries of these zones are demonstrated. The decompression procedure is subdivided into 4 stages (superomedial bursectomy, subspinous adhesiolysis, tuberoplasty, and scapuloplasty), and a measured resection technique for scapuloplasty is performed. The use of newer motorized rasps permits optimal bony resection, and additional portals are unnecessary. Overall, the step-by-step technique provides a methodical approach for safety, reproducibility, and optimization of the procedure.