Arthroscopic Excision of Scapular Exostoses: A Technical Note.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Shoulder Arthroscopy

Background:

• Scapular exostoses are rare cartilaginous growths causing pain and scapulothoracic bursitis.
• Open surgical resection is the traditional method but involves significant tissue disruption and prolonged rehabilitation.
• Minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques are emerging as alternatives for various orthopedic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a technical note on a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique for excising scapular exostoses.
• To describe the surgical procedure, including patient positioning, portal placement, and instrumentation.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of arthroscopic excision for symptomatic scapular exostoses.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 22-year-old female with a symptomatic ventral scapular exostosis.
• Arthroscopic en bloc excision of the benign exostosis under continuous visualization.
• Detailed description of surgical steps, portal management, and specimen retrieval.

Main Results:

• Successful en bloc excision of the scapular exostosis for histopathological analysis.
• No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed.
• Full recovery within six weeks, with pain relief and restored shoulder function at 24-month follow-up, showing no recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Arthroscopic excision is a viable and effective alternative to open surgery for scapular exostoses.
• The technique minimizes soft tissue trauma, leading to faster patient recovery.
• Safe and successful outcomes can be achieved with proper preoperative planning and experienced surgical hands.