Arthroscopic decompression of an entrapped suprascapular nerve due to an ossified superior transverse scapular ligament: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Suprascapular neuropathy is an uncommon cause of shoulder pain and weakness and therefore is frequently misdiagnosed. As a consequence, misdiagnosis can include inappropriate conservative treatment or unsuccessful surgical procedure. CASE PRESENTATION: A rare case is reported of a 54-year-old woman who suffered from suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. The patient was subjected to arthroscopy of the left shoulder, where a compression of the suprascapular nerve due to an ossified superior transverse scapular ligament was diagnosed. The arthroscopic release of the suprascapular nerve brought relief from pain, weakness and atrophy of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic decompression of the entrapped suprascapular nerve is technically challenging, but less invasive and potentially a more effective way to treat suprascapular neuropathy, as it may provide a more rapid recovery, especially in the rare case that the nerve is depressed by an ossified superior transverse scapular ligament.