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Suprascapular nerve entrapment caused by supraglenoid cyst compression
T P Moore1, H M Fritts, D C Quick
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|November 14, 1997
Summary
Supraglenoid ganglion cysts can cause shoulder pain and weakness by compressing the suprascapular nerve. Surgical treatment, including cyst decompression and labral repair, offers the best outcomes for symptomatic patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Suprascapular nerve entrapment is a recognized cause of shoulder dysfunction.
- Supraglenoid ganglion cysts are an uncommon but treatable etiology.
- Symptoms include pain and weakness, often mimicking other shoulder pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of suprascapular nerve entrapment due to supraglenoid cysts.
- To evaluate diagnostic methods and treatment outcomes.
- To establish optimal management guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 22 cases with supraglenoid cysts causing suprascapular nerve entrapment.
- Diagnostic modalities included magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and surgical exploration.
- Treatment options encompassed open excision, arthroscopy, or non-operative management.
Main Results:
- Twenty-two shoulders with suprascapular nerve entrapment secondary to supraglenoid cysts were analyzed.
- MRI diagnosed 20 cysts; electromyography (EMG) confirmed neurologic involvement in 16 shoulders.
- Surgical treatment (excision/arthroscopy) resulted in symptom resolution in 10 patients, with 5 experiencing occasional issues and 1 recurrence.
- Non-operative management showed limited improvement.
Conclusions:
- Supraglenoid ganglion cysts are a significant cause of suprascapular nerve entrapment.
- MRI is highly effective for diagnosis.
- Arthroscopic treatment with cyst decompression and superior labral repair is recommended for symptomatic cases.