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Updated: Feb 2, 2026
Author Spotlight: Double Posteromedial Approach for Treating Posterior Cruciate Ligament Cysts
Published on: October 20, 2023
Arthroscopic Treatment of Suprascapular Neuropathy from a Suprascapular Notch Cyst Using a Lateral Subacromial
Justin J Mitchell1, Ryan R Fader1, Melissa Munkwitz2
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Colorado Hospital, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Mail Stop B202, Aurora, CO 80045. E-mail address for J.J. Mitchell: Justin.J.Mitchell@ucdenver.edu.
Introduction:
We describe a safe surgical technique for arthroscopic decompression of a suprascapular notch cyst in the setting of compressive suprascapular neuropathy.
Step 1 Position The Patient:
Position the patient in the standard beach-chair position.
Step 2 Mark Anatomic Landmarks:
Palpate and mark the subcutaneous landmarks of the shoulder in preparation for later arthroscopy.
Step 3 Diagnostic Arthroscopy:
Create standard anterior and posterior portals for glenohumeral visualization.
Step 4 Perform Suprascapular Cyst Decompression Through A Lateral Subacromial Approach:
Establish accessory superior and lateral portals and transition to a lateral viewing portal to perform suprascapular notch decompression.
Step 5 Release The Transverse Scapular Ligament:
Establish a G Portal and release the transverse scapular ligament using arthroscopic scissors.
Step 6 Closure:
Perform arthroscopic lavage of the subacromial space and glenohumeral joint and close arthroscopic portals.
Results:
As suprascapular nerve entrapment is a relatively rare entity, with only a limited number of studies from which to draw conclusions regarding the outcomes of arthroscopic suprascapular nerve release, Shah et al. recently reported on their results in twenty-four patients using this surgical technique.IndicationsContraindicationsPitfalls & Challenges.
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