Safe zone for arthroscopic resection of the superomedial scapular border in the treatment of snapping scapula syndrome

Abstract

Arthroscopic resection of the superomedial corner of the scapula was performed in 20 fresh frozen cadaveric specimens to define clinically safe and useful margins for arthroscopic bony resection. The lateral border of resection was delineated by directing the burr either toward a specifically chosen arthroscopic resection target (ART) situated equidistant between the inferior scapular angle and scapular spine or more lateral to the inferior angle of the scapula. The minimum distances between the suprascapular notch and the lateral edge of the resection were 25 mm (average, 31 mm) in the ART group and 10 mm (average, 21 mm) in the inferior angle group (P < .01). From the results of our study, we recommend a safe zone for arthroscopic removal of bone and soft tissue from the superomedial corner of the scapula. The medial border is defined by the medial scapula and scapular spine; the lateral border is drawn between Bell's portal and the ART.