Loose body migrated into the rotator cuff in synovial chondromatosis: a case report

We describe a rare case of synovial chondromatosis in the subacromial bursa that led to rotator cuff damage and progressive glenohumeral osteoarthritis. A 66-year-old woman initially presented with shoulder pain and limited motion, and imaging revealed a loose body in the subacromial bursa and partial-thickness rotator cuff tear. Conservative treatment was initially effective, but symptoms recurred after migration of the loose body into the rotator cuff. Arthroscopic removal and partial synovectomy were performed, resulting in symptom relief. Histology confirmed benign osteochondroma. This case highlights the importance of early surgical intervention to prevent irreversible rotator cuff damage in similar cases.