Scapular Spine Research Articles

Superior approach to the glenoid for treating acromion fractures combined with ideberg type III scapular glenoid fractures: a technical note.

Scapular glenoid fractures, categorized based on the Ideberg classification, are commonly addressed surgically through approaches like the anterior deltoid-pectoral approach, posterior Judet approach, modified Judet approach, or posterior axillary approach. However, these methods present limitations in exposing the superior part of the glenoid. Therefore, we propose an approach for patients with concomitant acromion fractures, involving the anterior lateral flipping of the fractured acromion, allowing direct superior visualization of the superior and posterior superior parts of the glenoid. Retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of five patients with shoulder fractures combined with scapular Ideberg III fractures between June 2018 and May 2023. All patients were treated using the shoulder approach above the scapular spine. There were four males and one female, aged 23-54 years with an average age of 36.6 years. One case involved the left shoulder, and four cases involved the right shoulder. X-rays and CT were taken before and after surgery to assess the location of the fractures and the healing status. Clinical evaluation included the assessment of efficacy using the Constant-Murley scoring criteria and analysis of surgical complications. All five patients were followed up for a duration of 14-36 months. All fractures healed completely, with an average healing time of 4.3 months (range: 3-6 months). There were no complications such as suprascapular nerve injury, nonunion, wound infection, or shoulder joint instability observed postoperatively. At the final follow-up, the Constant-Murley shoulder joint function score ranged from 84 to 98 points, with an average of 91.4 points. Three patients achieved an excellent rating in shoulder joint function score, while two patients achieved a good rating. The shoulder approach above the scapular spine exhibits advantages such as easy exposure and reduction, minimal intraoperative trauma, and clear visualization.

Potential Utility of SPECT/CT for Early Detection of Scapular Stress Reaction Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty.

Scapular stress fracture (SSF) after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a unique and common complication that may have negative impact for long-term outcomes. Scapular stress reaction (SSR), characterized by pain and tenderness without radiographic evidence of fracture, can be precursor of SSF. We believe that early detection using SPECT/CT with proper management for SSRs including acromion, scapular spine, and coracoid process is crucial for better prognosis without additional complications by preventing SSFs. Therefore, we present 3 typical cases with SSR following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with the findings of SPECT/CT.

Lateralization and inclination angle in reverse arthroplasty—what do we know?

Since the original Grammont design of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty there has been a trend to decrease inclination angle from 155° to 145 or 135°. Furthermore, lateralization on the glenoid side has been advocated. These changes decrease the risk for impingement between humerus and the inferior part of the glenoid (notching). These changes were also made to improve restoration of rotation. However, there is very little evidence that rotation has improved due to these changes. A negative effect of lateralization is that it increases the risk for glenoid loosening. Furthermore, the stress on acromion increases which may lead to more acromion or scapula spine fractures. More randomized studies are needed to define optimal design of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Additional Scapular Spine Bone Grafting Combined with Bankart and Remplissage for Off-Track Hill-Sachs Lesions with Subcritical Glenoid Bone Loss: Provides Better Stability.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair combined with remplissage and autologous scapular spine bone grafting have been described as a treatment for off-track Hill-Sachs lesions with subcritical glenoid bone defects in the anterior shoulder instability. However, whether these two techniques can achieve satisfactory postoperative outcomes is unclear, and there are few comparative studies between them. Therefore, this study compared the postoperative efficacy of the two techniques for off-track Hill-Sachs lesions with subcritical glenoid bone loss. Between June 2017 and December 2020, 62 patients with shoulder instability due to Off-Track Hill-Sachs lesions with subcritical glenoid bone loss underwent surgical treatment and were included in this regression study. Thirty-two patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair combined with remplissage (B + R group), and 30 patients underwent additional autologous scapular glenoid bone grafting (additional bone grafting group). The general information of the patients was recorded. The patient's activity before and after surgery was recorded. The DASH score and Constant-Murley (CM) score were used to assess the patient's functional status; the Rowe score was used to evaluate the patient's shoulder stability. The shoulder function and stability before and after surgery were analyzed and compared between the two groups. The final DASH scores of the B + R group and the additional bone grafting group were significantly lower than those before surgery, with a statistically significant difference (9.76 ± 4.32 vs. 27.89 ± 6.63, 8.50 ± 3.32 vs. 28.0 ± 4.27, p = 0.000); the final CM scores of the two groups were significantly higher than those before surgery (88.71 ± 3.74 vs. 73.68 ± 3.74, 87.16 ± 2.29 vs. 71.37 ± 2.68, p = 0.000). There was no statistical difference in the final DASH score and final CM score between the two groups (p > 0.05). In terms of postoperative stability, the final Rowe scores of the two groups were significantly higher than those before surgery, with a statistically significant difference (89.06 ± 9.19 vs. 41.71 ± 4.13; 93.16 ± 4.99 vs. 42.33 ± 2.53, p = 0.000). Compared with the control group, the additional bone graft group achieved higher final Rowe scores (93.16 ± 4.99 vs. 89.06 ± 9.19, p = 0.032). For patients with anterior shoulder instability due to off-track Hill-Sachs lesions with subcritical glenoid bone loss, although Bankart and remplissage can achieve satisfactory clinical results, additional autogenous scapular spine bone grafting can provide better stability of the shoulder, especially for patients with high sports demands.

A gender and size specific evaluation of Grammont-type inlay versus lateralizing onlay stem designs in achieving lateralization and distalization in reverse shoulder arthroplasty

IntroductionIn reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) new designs enable greater amounts of lateralization to prevent instability and scapular notching and increase range of motion, however, excessive lateralization leads to stress upon the acromion that can result in scapular spine fatigue fractures. Aim of this study was to gender- and size-specifically assess the influence of glenosphere size and different humeral designs on lateralization, distalization, and bony impingement-free range of motion (ROM) in patients undergoing RSA.MethodsComputed tomography scans from 30 osteoarthritic patients (f:15, m:15) and 20 cuff tear arthropathy patients (f:10, m:10) were used to virtually simulate RSA implantation. The efficacy of an inlay Grammont-type system vs. an onlay lateralizing system combined with different glenosphere sizes (36 mm vs. 42 mm) in achieving ROM, lateralization, and distalization was evaluated. Moreover, gender and patient’s constitution were correlated to humeral size by radiologically measuring the best-fit circle of the humeral head.ResultsA different amount of relative lateralization was achieved in both genders using large glenospheres and onlay designs. Latter yielded a higher ROM in all planes for men and women with a 42 mm glenosphere; with the 36 mm glenosphere, an increased ROM was observed only in men. The 155° inlay design led to joint medialization only in men, whereas all designs led to lateralization in women. When adjusting the absolute amount of lateralization to humerus’ size (or patient’s height), regardless of implant type, women received greater relative lateralization using 36 mm glenosphere (inlay: 1%; onlay 12%) than men with 42 mm glenosphere (inlay: -3%; onlay: 8%).ConclusionThe relative lateralization achieved using onlay design is much higher in women than men. Small glenospheres yield greater relative lateralization in women compared to large glenospheres in men. Humeral lateralization using onlay designs should be used cautiously in women, as they lead to great relative lateralization increasing stress onto the acromion.Level of evidenceBasic Science Study, Computer Modeling.

The scapula spine may not be a suitable source of bone graft for glenoid reconstruction in critical bone loss

AimsThe hypothesis is that the scapula spine can provide a graft of suitable dimensions for use in cases of shoulder instability with critical bone loss. We aimed to investigate its utility with grafts of differing sizes. MethodsThe scapula spine was measured on CT scans of 50 patients who had undergone anterior stabilization. The theoretical ability to harvest a graft of either 2x1x1cm or 2x0.8x0.8cm was analyzed. ResultsUsing the 2 x 1 x 1cm threshold, 36% of the scapulae had at least one zone from which a suitable graft could be obtained. 61% had only one zone from which a suitable graft could be obtained.Using the 2 x 0.8 x 0.8cm threshold, 72% had at least one zone from which a graft could be obtained. 47% met the threshold in one zone only. ConclusionThe scapula spine can be used as a source of autograft. Grafts up to 2 x 1 x 1cm can be harvested in some individuals, however the anatomy is very variable. Take home messageThe scapula spine can be used but we recommend that individualized preoperative planning is undertaken to ensure that a suitable graft can be harvested from the spine and to identify the exact location.

Operative treatment of acromial and scapular spine fracture nonunions complicating reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundFractures of the acromion and spine can have a major impact on the outcome of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) with respect to pain, motion, and function. Reports on internal fixation for these fractures are isolated to small series or case reports with variable outcomes. The purpose of this study was to report on the outcome of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of acromion or spine fractures encountered before or after RSA and describe our evolution of fixation techniques. MethodsBetween 2011 and 2023, 22 fractures or nonunions of the acromion or spine of the scapula underwent ORIF at a single institution and were followed for a minimum of 1 year. In 16 shoulders, fractures occurred after RSA, whereas 5 shoulders underwent ORIF prior to RSA. One shoulder had undergone prior failed ORIF elsewhere and revision ORIF was performed at our institution. There were 10 males and 12 females with a mean age of 67 (SD=15.1) years. Fixation strategies included single (n=11) and double plate fixation (n=11). Kruskal-Wallis one-way analyses of variance were used to analyze continuous variables and Chi-square tests employed for categorical variables. ResultsOf the 5 fractures treated with ORIF pre-RSA, 1 shoulder suffered an additional fracture medial to the hardware and 1 required additional bone grafting for incomplete union at the time of RSA. These 5 shoulders all underwent RSA uneventfully, but one fracture experienced late displacement of the scapular spine nonunion, leading to plate removal. Of the 16 post-RSA ORIF shoulders, radiographic union was confirmed in 14 and substantial residual inferior angulation identified in 3. New fractures occurred after ORIF in 5 shoulders. For patients who underwent ORIF after RSA, pain scores improved from a mean of 8 to 1.9 points, with more modest elevation gains (58.2° to 91.3° pre- and postoperatively, respectively). ConclusionsORIF of acromion and scapular spine fractures or nonunions in the setting of RSA have the potential to lead to union. When these fractures and nonunions are encountered prior to RSA, ORIF allows for uneventful RSA implantation, but secondary displacement may occur. ORIF seems to lead to improvements in pain, but more modest improvements in motion and function. Our fixation strategy has evolved to (1) dual plating, (2) spanning the whole length of the spine with one of the plates, (3) use of hook features under the acromion or os trigonum if possible, and (4) liberal use of bone graft.

Bone Density Changes at the Origin of the Deltoid Muscle following Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.

Background: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) significantly impacts deltoid length, tension, and structure. Studies have extensively investigated various modifications in deltoid characteristics, such as perfusion, elasticity, caliber, histological changes, and strength post-RSA. However, to date, there is a notable absence of research evaluating changes in bone mineral density (BMD) at the deltoid muscle origin after the RSA procedure. Methods: A retrospective analysis of a consecutive series of RSAs performed between May 2011 and May 2022 was conducted. Inclusion criteria comprised primary RSAs with both preoperative and last follow-up shoulder CT scans and a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Trabecular attenuation measured in Hounsfield units (HU) was calculated using a rapid region-of-interest (ROI) method. BMD analysis involved segmenting three ROIs in both pre- and postoperative CT scans of each patient: the acromion, clavicle, and spine of the scapula. Results: A total of 44 RSAs in 43 patients, comprising 29 women and 14 men, were included in this study. The mean follow-up duration was 49 ± 22.64 months. Significant differences were observed between preoperative and postoperative HU values in all analyzed regions. Specifically, BMD increased in the acromion and spine, while it decreased in the clavicle (p-values 0.0019, <0.0001, and 0.0088, respectively). Conclusions: The modifications in shoulder biomechanics and, consequently, deltoid tension post-implantation result in discernible variations in bone quality within the analyzed regions. This study underscores the importance of thorough preoperative patient planning. By utilizing CT images routinely obtained before reverse shoulder replacement surgery, patients at high risk for fractures of the acromion, clavicle, and scapular spine can be identified.

Osteochondroma at the Ventro-Medial Surface of the Scapula Causing Pseudo Winging Scapular Resection with Computer-Assisted Navigation: A Case Report and Literature Review

Purpose: Osteochondromas, the most common benign bone tumors, primarily occur in the long bones, with scapular osteochondromas constituting less than 1% of cases. A unique challenge in ventral scapular osteochondromas is limited visibility from the dorsal side. Computer-assisted surgery, which is widely employed in tumor surgery is a promising solution for minimally invasive resection with reduced muscle injury. Methods: We present the case of a thirteen-year-old female with a ventral scapular osteochondroma that cause winging and snaping of her left arm. The patient underwent computer-assisted surgery under general anesthesia in the prone position. The procedure involved a minimal incision over the crest of the scapular spine, enabling precise identification of the tumor from the dorsal side using navigation tools. Results: The tumor, identified as an osteochondroma on CT scans, was successfully resected with minimal soft tissue damage. Postoperatively, the patient's arm was immobilized for two weeks, followed by a pain-free return to normal activity. Radiographic evaluation confirmed complete tumor removal. Conclusions: Computer-assisted navigation can help locate the ventral osteochondroma of the scapula with minimal soft tissue damage and a quicker recovery time.

Surface anatomy and levator scapulae muscle injection: A cadaveric investigation.

Accurate detection of the levator scapulae muscle is critical for effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. The commonly used surface anatomy approach has not been validated and is less accurate than ultrasound-guided techniques. Therefore, we determined the needle insertion point for the levator scapulae using a new technique based on the anatomy of the scapula. This investigation used 15 fresh-frozen cadavers to explore the relationship between the acromial angle and medial tip of the scapular spine (O) of the scapular spine. Based on the x-axis (the distance [L] from Point O to point acromial angle) and the y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis passing through Point O, the barycentric coordinates were determined through the intersections of each axis and the superior angle of the scapula with the levator scapulae. Various ratios involving the established distance L) were ascertained, we compared the measurements and ratios between the male and female groups, and the accuracy of the new technique was compared with the conventional technique. The optimal site of the new technique was within 6 to 7% of distance L on the x-axis and 42 to 44% of distance L on the y-axis. This technique was significantly more accurate than the conventional technique (P = .006). Although ultrasound allows for accurate injections via real-time visualization, its unavailability in some cases highlights the importance of understanding surface anatomy landmarks. Our new technique, based on the anatomy of the scapula and relative measurements, is more accurate than the conventional technique. This should enable more precise detection of the levator scapulae for accurate and efficient diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Relationship between scapular body morphology and rotator cuff tears: a threedimensional computed tomography study.

The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between scapula morphology and rotator cuff tears (RCT). Hundred seventeen shoulders with and 87 shoulders without RCTs were included in this retrospective study. The critical shoulder angle (CSA) and lateral acromion angle in the coronal view, and the acromial coverage angle (ACA) and coracoid and scapular spine angle (CSSA) in the sagittal view were evaluated using 3-dimensional computed tomography. The glenoid anterior tilt, anterior acromial projection angle (AAPA), coracoid process angle, scapular spine angle (SSA), and inferior angle angle (IAA) with respect to the scapular plane were measured in the sagittal view. In univariate logistic regression analysis, CSA, ACA, AAPA, SSA, and IAA were significantly greater in shoulders with RCTs, whereas CSSA was greater in shoulders without RCTs. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, CSA and IAA were greater in shoulders with RCT and were significantly associated with this condition (P=.00073, P=.0032). This study has shown us that RCTs were associated with a greater curvature of the scapular body and greater CSA and IAA.

Implant-Positioning and Patient Factors Associated with Acromial and Scapular Spine Fractures After Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

Background: This study aimed to identify implant positioning parameters and patient factors contributing to acromial stress fractures (ASFs) and scapular spine stress fractures (SSFs) following reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Methods: In a multicenter retrospective study, the cases of patients who underwent RSA from June 2013 to May 2019 and had a minimum 3-month follow-up were reviewed. The study involved 24 surgeons, from 15 U.S. institutions, who were members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES). Study parameters were defined through the Delphi method, requiring 75% agreement among surgeons for consensus. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors linked to ASFs and SSFs. Radiographic data, including the lateralization shoulder angle (LSA), distalization shoulder angle (DSA), and lateral humeral offset (LHO), were collected in a 2:1 control-to-fracture ratio and analyzed to evaluate their association with ASFs/SSFs. Results: Among 6,320 patients, the overall stress fracture rate was 3.8% (180 ASFs [2.8%] and 59 SSFs [0.9%]). ASF risk factors included inflammatory arthritis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.29, p &lt; 0.001), a massive rotator cuff tear (OR = 2.05, p = 0.010), osteoporosis (OR = 2.00, p &lt; 0.001), prior shoulder surgery (OR = 1.82, p &lt; 0.001), cuff tear arthropathy (OR = 1.76, p = 0.002), female sex (OR = 1.74, p = 0.003), older age (OR = 1.02, p = 0.018), and greater total glenoid lateral offset (OR = 1.06, p = 0.025). Revision surgery (versus primary surgery) was associated with a reduced ASF risk (OR = 0.38, p = 0.019). SSF risk factors included female sex (OR = 2.45, p = 0.009), rotator cuff disease (OR = 2.36, p = 0.003), osteoporosis (OR = 2.18, p = 0.009), and inflammatory arthritis (OR = 2.04, p = 0.024). Radiographic analysis of propensity score-matched patients showed that a greater increase in the LSA (ΔLSA) from preoperatively to postoperatively (OR = 1.42, p = 0.005) and a greater postoperative LSA (OR = 1.76, p = 0.009) increased stress fracture risk, while increased LHO (OR = 0.74, p = 0.031) reduced it. Distalization (ΔDSA and postoperative DSA) showed no significant association with stress fracture prevalence. Conclusions: Patient factors associated with poor bone density and rotator cuff deficiency appear to be the strongest predictors of ASFs and SSFs after RSA. Final implant positioning, to a lesser degree, may also affect ASF and SSF prevalence in at-risk patients, as increased humeral lateralization was found to be associated with lower fracture rates whereas excessive glenoid-sided and global lateralization were associated with higher fracture rates. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Variations in the Anatomic Morphology of the Scapular Spine and Implications on Fracture After Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.

This study evaluates the role of anatomic scapular morphology in acromion and scapular spine fracture (SSAF) risk after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Twelve scapular measurements were captured based on pilot study data, including scapular width measurements at the acromion (Z1), middle of the scapular spine (Z2), and medial to the first major angulation (Z3). Measurements were applied to 3D-CT scans from patients who sustained SSAF after RSA (SSAF group) and compared with those who did not (control group). Measurements were done by four investigators, and the intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated. Regression analysis determined trends in fracture incidence. One hundred forty-nine patients from two separate surgeons (J.L., A.M.) were matched by age and surgical indication of whom 51 sustained SSAF after reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Average ages for the SSAF and control cohorts were 78.6 and 72.1 years, respectively. Among the SSAF group, 15 were Levy type I, 26 Levy type II, and 10 Levy type 3 fractures. The intraclass correlation coefficient of Z1, Z2, and Z3 measurements was excellent (0.92, 0.92, and 0.94, respectively). Zone 1 and 3 measurements for the control group were 18.6 ± 3.7 mm and 3.2 ± 1.0 mm, respectively, compared with 22.5 ± 5.9 mm and 2.0 ± 0.70 mm in the SSAF group, respectively. The fracture group trended toward larger Z1 and smaller Z3 measurements. The average scapular spine proportion (SSP), Z1/Z3, was significantly greater in the control 6.20 ± 1.80 versus (12.60 ± 6.30; P < 0.05). Regression analysis showed a scapular spine proportion of ≤5 was associated with a fracture risk <5%, whereas an SSP of 9.2 correlated with a 50% fracture risk. Patients with a thicker acromions (Z1) and thinner medial scapular spines (Z3) have increased fracture risk. Understanding anatomic scapular morphology may allow for better identification of high-risk patients preoperatively.

Finite element analysis of acromial fracture after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundThe prevalence of acromial fracture after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is reportedly 2.6%-8.4%, and clinical outcomes differ among fracture sites. However, few studies have investigated the factors affecting fracture sites. This study aimed to reproduce acromial fractures after RSA by replicating the postoperative displacement of the humerus using finite element models (FEMs), and to investigate the effect of humeral displacement on the fracture site. MethodsSix patients (mean age, 76.3 ± 7.9 years; 5 women and 1 man) with acromial fractures after RSA treated at our institution were included. Among them, 3 had Levy Type 1 fractures, whereas the other 3 had Levy Type 2 fractures. Preoperative computed tomography data were used to create a 3-dimensional FEM. All elements within the proximal 2 cm of the clavicle and the scapular body were completely constrained. The entire humerus was forcibly displaced following its displacement after RSA, as measured by preoperative and postoperative computed tomography. The fracture sites, total displacement, external constraint of the humerus at the initial fracture, and bone density from the acromion to the scapular spine were investigated. Values of P < .05 were considered statistically significant in tests of statistical inference but were interpreted as reference values due to the small number of cases. ResultsThere were no major differences in humeral displacement between Type 1 and Type 2 fractures. Although the fracture sites in the FEM were slightly more medial than the actual fracture sites, they were similar. The total displacement and external constraint of the humerus at the initial fracture were similar in Type 1 and Type 2 fractures. The distribution of bone density from the acromion to the scapular spine differed between fracture types. ConclusionWe were able to reproduce acromial fractures after RSA by replicating humeral displacement using FEM. The extent and direction of humeral displacement may not significantly affect the acromial fracture site, whereas the bone density distribution from the acromion to the scapular spine may affect it.

A novel 3D MRI-based approach for assessing supraspinatus muscle length

Rotator cuff (RC) tears are a common source of pain and decreased shoulder strength. Muscle length is known to affect muscle strength, and therefore evaluating changes in supraspinatus muscle length associated with RC pathology, surgical repair, and post-operative recovery may provide insights into functional deficits. Our objective was to develop a reliable MRI-based approach for assessing supraspinatus muscle length. Using a new semi-automated approach for identifying 3D location of the muscle–tendon junction (MTJ), supraspinatus muscle length was calculated as the sum of MTJ distance (distance between 3D MTJ position and glenoid plane) and supraspinatus fossa length (distance between root of the scapular spine and glenoid plane). Inter- and intra-operator reliability of this technique were assessed with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and found to be excellent (ICCs > 0.96). Muscle lengths of 6 patients were determined before RC repair surgery and at 3- and 12-months post-surgery. Changes in normalized muscle length (muscle length as a percentage of pre-surgical muscle length) at 3 months post-surgery varied considerably across patients (16.1 % increase to 7.0 % decrease) but decreased in all patients from 3- to 12-months post-surgery (0.3 % to 17.2 %). This study developed a novel and reliable approach for quantifying supraspinatus muscle length and provided preliminary demonstration of its utility by assessing muscle length changes associated with RC pathology and surgical repair. Future studies can use this technique to evaluate changes over time in supraspinatus muscle length in response to clinical intervention, and associations between muscle length and shoulder function.

Safety and Early Results for Off-Label Use of Intranasal Calcitonin for Treatment of Nondisplaced Acromial and Scapular Spine Stress Fractures After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty.

Immobilization for acromial and scapular spine stress AU4fractures (AF/SSF) after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is associated with patient dissatisfaction. Our study reports the effects and safety of intranasal calcitonin alongside sling immobilization on pain and function in the treatment of AF/SSF after RSA. The treatment was regimented calcitonin (salmon) 200 unit/actuation nasal spray (1 spray/day) for 6 weeks with sling immobilization for 4 weeks. Each patient was monitored through blood work. Visual analog scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and active range of motion were collected preoperatively, postoperatively, at presentation of AF/SSF, and after completion of calcitonin treatment. Two hundred eighty-two RSAs were performed by two board-certified orthopaedic surgeons, of which 18 patients sustained AF/SSF (6.4%). Ten patients met inclusion criteria (nine AFs and one SSF). After calcitonin treatment, patients demonstrated an average improvement of visual analog scale of 5.8 points, active range of motion of 46_, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of 43.6 points at average 7.53 months after RSA. No medical complications were reported at 6-month follow-up after calcitonin treatment. The use of intranasal calcitonin was not associated withadverse events including no aberrations/signs of cancer at 6-month follow-up after administration. Calcitonin with sling immobilization markedly improved clinical and functional outcomes of patients with nondisplaced AF/SSF and may be considered by orthopaedic surgeons for symptom management.

Determining the Normal Glenoid Version in the Indian Population.

Background Glenoid version refers to the angle subtended by the glenoid with the scapula. On average, it is 0 ± 10 degrees with a slight propensity toward retroversion. Numerous factors such the dominance(handedness), gender, ethnicity, and pathology are known to affect version. Version has important consequences on the biomechanics of the shoulder joint and is altered in those with arthritis and shoulder joint instability. Aim Our study aimed to determine the normal range of glenoid version in the population. Further, we aim to assess the relationship between gender and version. Settings and Design We conducted a retrospective observational study in a tertiary referral hospital with a target sample size of 200 shoulders. Methods and Materials The computed tomography images were retrospectively reviewed to determine the scapular shape and the glenoid version angle. Statistical Analysis Statistical analysis was done using SPSS v.22 software with p -value less than 0.05 considered as significant. Results The mean age of the individuals in our study was 44 years. In our study, irrespective of gender, most individuals had some degree of anteversion and males had lower degree of anteversion. Previous studies have shown that most normal individuals usually have retroverted shoulder joints. The mean glenoid version was significantly lower in the right than in the left shoulder and males had significantly lower mean glenoid version than females in both shoulders. Most individuals in our study had a flat scapular spine. Conclusion This study shows that the Indian population may have a slight propensity toward anteversion and this has an important bearing on shoulder arthroplasty. Further, this study shows that significantly lower degrees of version are found on the right side and that the degree of version is significantly lower in males. Understanding the role of glenoid version in shoulder biomechanics will go a long way in the early identification of pathology, the preoperative planning of shoulder arthroplasty, and the operative restoration of a functional shoulder joint.

Acromion and scapular spine fractures after reverse shoulder arthroplasty: rate of detection by computed tomography

BackgroundAcromion and scapular spine fractures (ASFs) after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty have been reported at a rate of 3.9 percent. Radiographs have been shown to be unreliable at identifying these fractures, with an estimated 20% false negative rate. A computed tomography (CT) scan is typically performed when initial radiographs are inconclusive and clinical suspicion for ASF remains high. However, the accuracy of identifying ASF fractures after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) with CT has not been studied. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the ability of CT scans to detect clinically suspected ASF fractures after RSA when initial radiographs are inconclusive. MethodsA retrospective review of our institution’s shoulder and elbow repository identified 111 patients treated with RSA from 2006 to 2022 that subsequently sustained an ASF. Upon clinical suspicion of an ASF, a 4-view radiographic series was obtained. If no fracture was clearly identified, a thin-cut CT was obtained. Additional four-view radiographic series were taken at each subsequent follow-up. Rate of detection by CT scan was defined using the number of cases with positive scans out of the number in which both a CT scan was performed, and a fracture was identified on either CT scan or other additional follow-up imaging. ResultsAfter inconclusive radiographs, a CT was ordered for 61 patients (55%) at a median of 1.3 weeks after the onset of signs/symptoms suspicious for ASF. Fractures were identified in 52 cases (85.2%) at a median of 1.6 weeks after the onset of sign/symptoms. The fracture was not seen on CT in 9 cases at a median of 0.9 week after the onset of sign/symptoms, representing a false negative rate of 14.8%. These fractures were later identified on radiographs at a median of 5.9 weeks following the CT scan. No statistical differences were observed in sensitivity of CT scan between fracture types. Fractures initially missed on CT scan eventually displaced and became nonunions. ConclusionCT scans can be helpful in identifying and characterizing ASF following RSA, with an overall rate of detection (sensitivity) of 85%. Consideration of alternative advanced imaging may be needed for patients with negative CT scans and a high index of clinical suspicion for ASF.

A Posterior Acromial Bone Block Augmentation Is Biomechanically Effective at Restoring the Force Required To Translate the Humeral Head Posteriorly in a Cadaveric, Posterior Glenohumeral Instability Model

The purpose of this study was to assess the biomechanical utility of a posterior acromial bone block (PABB) for the treatment of posterior glenohumeral instability. 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens were obtained based upon an a priori power analysis. A 2.5 cm scapular spine autograft was harvested from all shoulders. A custom robot device was used to apply a 50-N compressive force to the glenohumeral joint. The humeral head was translated 10mm posteroinferiorly at 30 degrees from the center of the glenoid at a rate of 1.0 mm/s in 6 consecutive conditions: 1) intact specimen, 2) intact with PABB, 3) posterior capsulolabral tear 4) addition of the PABB, 5) removal of the PABB and repair of the capsulolabral tear (LR), and 6) addition of the PABB with LR. The maximum force required to obtain this translation was recorded. Paired T-tests were performed to compare relevant testing conditions. 10 cadavers with mean age 54.4 years (Standard Deviation (SD) ± 13.1) and mean glenoid retroversion of 6.5 degrees (SD ± 1.0) were studied. The PABB provided greater resistance force to humeral head translation compared to the instability state (instability, 29.3 ± 15.3N versus PABB, 47.6 ± 21.0 N, P = 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI] -27.6, -10.0). When comparing PABB to LR, the PABB produced higher resistance force than LR alone (PABB, 47.6 ± 21.0 N, LR, 34.2 ± 20.5N, P = 0.012, 95% CI -23.4, -4.1). An instability lesion treated with the PABB, with (P =0.056, 95% CI -0.30, 20.4) or without LR (P = 0.351, 95% CI -6.8, 15.7), produced resistance forces similar to the intact specimen. A posterior acromial bone block is biomechanically effective at restoring the force required to translate the humeral head posteriorly in a cadaveric, posterior glenohumeral instability model. A posterior acromial bone block is a biomechanically feasible option to consider in patients with recurrent posterior instability.

Comparison of Low Level Laser Therapy with Cryostretch and Ultrasound Therapy with Cryostretch among Individuals with Upper Trapizitis

Background: One of two important superficial muscles, the trapezius extends laterally to the scapular spine andlongitudinally from the occipital bone to the lower thoracic vertebrae.Scapulae movement and arm support aretwo of its roles.Purpose: To determine and compare the effect of low level laser therapy with cryostretch and ultrasound therapywith cryostretch in upper trapizitis patient.Materials and Methods: A total of 322 subjects were selected randomly based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.Written informed consent obtained from the participants who met a pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.History of pain was collected from the patient. In this study, the samples were randomly divided into two groupsand group A had a low level laser therapy with cryostretch and group B had a ultrasound therapy with cryostretch.Treatment was administered for weeks three times a week.Results: The statistical analysis of the data using paired and unpaired t-tests revealed a substantial improvementin the participants who received cryostretch ultrasound therapy.Conclusion: The study concluded that ultrasound therapy with cryostretch was more effective in reducing thepain when compared to low level laser therapy with cryostretch in patient with upper trapizitis.