Bilateral scapular osteochondroma in Multiple Hereditary Exostosis patient presented with bilateral shoulder pain treated with arthroscopic and open excision: Case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Multiple etiologies for snapping shoulder syndrome have been described in the existing literature. Scapular osteochondroma is considered as a rare etiology and bilateral scapular osteochondroma have rarely been reported to date. Patient can present with discomfort, pain and crepitation. Multiple surgical methods were described and the patient underwent two different surgical methods with preferable outcome for arthroscopic side. CASE PRESENTATION: 24 year-old male who is known case of Multiple Hereditary Exostosis (MHE) since childhood presented with bilateral shoulder pain and snapping scapula. Computed tomography demonstrated bilateral ventral scapular osteochondromas. One side treated with open excision and other side with arthroscopic excision. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Patient exhibited resolution of symptoms, restoration of function on both sides, but he reported cosmetic preference over arthroscopic side and faster recovery from surgery as well in terms of pain resolution and rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: Osteochondroma should by one of differential diagnoses for snapping shoulder syndrome. Despite arthroscopic excision is technically demanding, it carries better outcome compared to open excision.