Association between scapula bony morphology and snapping scapula syndrome

Snapping scapula syndrome (SSS) was originally described by Boinet. Thickening of the superior scapula angle from post-traumatic changes, Luschka tubercle, osteochondroma, or subscapular elastofibroma may be factors for painful snapping scapula. However, in many cases, the origin of SSS remains unclear.

Variations of the scapula costal surface, such as inward bending of the medial scapula border reported in 2% to 6% of the scapulae, have been described as contributing to SSS. In addition, multiple clinical studies have reported pain relief after resection of the superior medial border of the scapula. Currently, there are no evidence- based guidelines regarding the amount of scapular resection needed. Warth suggested the removal of a 2-cm (superior-to-inferior) by 3-cm (medial-to-lateral) triangular section of bone. Mozes defined incongruity of the thoracoscapular articulation as either a superomedial scapula angle of less than 142 , inward bending of the medial scapula border, or the presence of a rhinoceros horn–like deformity inferiorly. They found deformities in all snapping scapulae by 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT). These variations in scapula bony morphology may play a role in the development of SSS.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was an association between SSS and the scapular configuration on the axial images of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. We hypothesized that an angulation of the costal surface of the upper third of the medial scapula toward the thorax may lead to painful impingement and that such a bony morphology would be associated with SSS.

Full Article: Association between scapula bony morphology and snapping scapula syndrome

Peter Millett, MD

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Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

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Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

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Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

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I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
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Association between scapula bony morphology and snapping scapula syndrome

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD