Lesser occipital nerve neurotmesis following shoulder arthroscopy

Abstract

Arthroscopy of the shoulder (particularly in the beachposition) has become the preferred diagnostic and therapeutic option to manage particular shoulder problems. It is associated with a reduced risk of complications and an enhanced recovery postoperatively when compared with open surgery. In this case, the use of a horseshoe-shaped headrest during beach-chair surgery caused a complication unreported in the literature previously; namely permanent injury to the lesser occipital nerve.