Abstract
Suprascapular neuropathy is an increasingly recognized pathology associated with retracted large or massive rotator cuff tears; however, there is currently a paucity of data in the literature to guide optimal management. The cases presented emphasize the diagnostic workup, particularly electrodiagnostic studies, followed by a discussion of surgical technique for arthroscopic suprascapular nerve release for compression in the context of rotator cuff tears and after rotator cuff repair. Clinical studies have shown that most cases of suprascapular neuropathy associated with rotator cuff tears resolve following rotator cuff repair alone. In certain cases of irreparable tears or massive tears requiring extensive mobilization, release of the suprascapular nerve may be indicated. In addition, suprascapular neuropathy should be considered as a possible etiology in the differential in patients who experience weakness and pain following rotator cuff repair.
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Abbreviations
- EMG:
-
Electromyography
- NCV:
-
Nerve conduction velocity
- RC:
-
Rotator cuff
- SSN:
-
Suprascapular neuropathy
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Fritz, E.M., Katthagen, J.C., Boykin, R.E., Millett, P.J. (2018). Suprascapular Nerve Release with Rotator Cuff Tears. In: McMahon, P. (eds) Rotator Cuff Injuries. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63668-9_20
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63668-9_20
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