Arthroscopic Management of Snapping Scapular Syndrome due to Recalcitrant Scapulothoracic Bursitis - A Case Series

Snapping scapula syndrome (SSS) is a rare pathological condition characterized by palpable and/or audible crackling sensation during scapulothoracic movements. Scapulothoracic bursitis with or without osseous lesions is commonly associated with this syndrome. The initial management is always non-operative methods with anti-inflammatory medications and physiotherapy modalities. However, if the symptoms persist beyond 3-6 months of non-surgical treatment, it should be categorized as refractory or recalcitrant bursitis and necessitate either open or arthroscopic surgical excision of the lesion.

We successfully managed five patients with SSS with arthroscopic scapulothoracic bursectomy.

Arthroscopic scapulothoracic bursectomy is a successful surgical intervention for patients with scapulothoracic bursitis who do not respond to the conservative mode of management.