Editorial Commentary: Snapping Scapula Syndrome: Predictors of Outcomes After Arthroscopic Treatment

Snapping scapula syndrome and scapulothoracic bursitis are rare, often painful or functionally limiting conditions that can present owing to underlying anatomic abnormalities or can be idiopathic in nature. When there are no underlying structural abnormalities, diagnosis can be challenging and frequently patients will present with chronic pain having received multiple diagnostic and treatment modalities with no success. Injections into the scapulothoracic bursa, in conjunction with physical therapy, have been shown to be effective for the patient with snapping scapula syndrome and/or scapulothoracic bursitis, when recognized. Yet, some cases are recalcitrant to conservative treatment, and surgical intervention is required. As with any procedure, patient selection for surgical intervention is critical and based on the diagnostic workup-particularly, the response to diagnostic or therapeutic injections. The best surgical outcomes may be achieved in patients who receive bursectomy in conjunction with partial scapulectomy, and negative prognostic factors include older age, lower preoperative psychological score, and longer duration of symptoms.