The scapuloacromial angle: a 3D analysis of acromial slope and its relationship with shoulder impingement

PURPOSE: To quantify acromial slope (the scapuloacromial [SA] angle). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used shoulder MR studies in 64 subjects who were stratified surgically into impingement (with and without tear) and nonimpingement (shoulder instability) groups. We measure, in three dimensions, the angle between unit normal vectors to planes of best fit to the undersurface of the acromion and the medial surface of the blade of the scapula. We examine the projection of this SA angle onto the transverse, coronal, and sagittal planes to gauge some measure of rotation, lateral tilt, and anterior tilt with respect to the patient. Orientation of the acromion and scapular blade in relation to the MR scanner and therefore to the patient was also calculated. RESULTS: We found no significant differences between these two groups when examining age and side of pathology. A statistically significant difference was seen between males and females. CONCLUSION: Our study does not support the idea that a flatter acromial slope causes impingement and is an etiological basis for rotator cuff tears. We believe that acromial slope, regardless of imaging plane, is not useful in classifying patients who present with shoulder pain and should not be considered as a source of pathologic changes.     

Long-term results after resection of the coracoacromial ligament for shoulder impingement in athletes

The impingement syndrome with shoulder pain is a well known problem in many sports, such as swimming. Anterior acromioplasty or only resection of the coracoacromial ligament have been used for the patients who do not respond to noninvasive therapy. In this retrospective study, the long-term results after resection of the coracoacromial ligament were evaluated. Of 30 operated patients, 25 were examined on average 4 years after surgery. Almost all were active athletes at the elite professional level (national team) or the league competitive level. Their mean age was 23 years at the time of the operation and the dominant symptom was shoulder pain on effort. At follow-up 21 (84%) were judged as excellent or good and 4 (16%) as fair or poor. Resection of the coracoacromial ligament without acromioplasty is a simple surgical procedure and a useful solution to an otherwise therapy-resistant impingement shoulder pain in athletes.     

直接数字X线摄影对肩峰下撞击综合征的诊断价值

目的探讨肩关节正位、轴位、肩峰出口位直接数字X线摄影(DR)在肩峰下撞击综合征诊断中的意义。方法选取以肩部疼痛及活动受限为主诉的患者20例进行分析,其中男性13例,女性7例,右肩15例,左肩5例,分别摄取肩关节正位、轴位、肩峰出口位DR片,20例患者均行患肩关节磁共振成像(MRI)检查。结果 DR检查9例阳性患者,磁共振成像(MRI)检查均可见肩袖表面毛糙、部分或全层撕裂,而DR检查阴性患者仅1例可见肩袖损伤。结论肩关节正位、轴位、肩峰出口位DR对诊断肩峰下撞击综合征具有病因学意义。     

The immediate effects of a shoulder brace on muscle activity and scapular kinematics in subjects with shoulder impingement syndrome and rounded shoulder posture: A randomized crossover design

BackgroundRound shoulder posture (RSP) is one of the potential risks for shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) due to alignment deviation of the scapula. Evidence on how the characteristics of a shoulder brace affecting the degree of RSP, shoulder kinematics, and associated muscle activity during movements is limited.Research questionThe purposes of this study were (1) to compare the effects of a shoulder brace on clinical RSP measurements, muscle activities and scapular kinematics during arm movements in subjects with shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) and RSP; and (2) to compare the effects of two configurations (parallel and diagonal) and two tensions (comfortable and forced tension) of the brace straps on muscle activities and scapular kinematics during arm movements in subjects with SIS and RSP.MethodsTwenty-four participants (12 males; 12 females) with SIS and RSP were randomly assigned into 2 groups (comfortable then forced, and forced then comfortable) with 2 strap configurations in each tension condition. The pectoralis minor index (PMI), acromial distance (AD) and shoulder angle (SA) were used to assess the degree of RSP. Three-dimensional electromagnetic motion analysis and electromyography were used to record the scapular kinematics and muscle activity during arm movements.ResultsAll clinical measurements with the brace were significantly improved (p < 0.05). Under forced tension, muscle activities were higher with the diagonal configuration than with the parallel configuration in the lower trapezius (LT) (1.2–2.3% MVIC, p < 0.05) and serratus anterior (SA) (2.3% MVIC, p = 0.015). For upward rotation and posterior tilting of the scapula, the diagonal configuration was larger than the parallel configuration (1.5°, p = 0.038; 0.4°–0.5°, p < 0.05, respectively).SignificanceDifferent characteristics of the straps of the shoulder brace could alter muscle activity and scapular kinematics at different angles during arm movement. Based on the clinical treatment preference, the application of a shoulder brace with a diagonal configuration and forced tension is suggested for SIS and RSP subjects.     

Clinical evaluation of nonarthritic shoulder pain: Diagnosis and treatment

Shoulder pain and dysfunction is a complex problem frequently encountered by primary care physicians. Common nonarthritic conditions seen in the primary care setting include rotator cuff syndrome, impingement, posttraumatic stiffness, adhesive capsulitis, and instability. A thorough history and physical examination can aid in the diagnosis of many common shoulder complaints. Pain and instability are the most common shoulder complaints. Pain that is sharp or burning is commonly radicular in origin, whereas pain caused by tendinitis is often dull, diffuse, and aching. Instability is frequently found in patients with a history of dislocation, but also may occur with no prior history. Imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging can be helpful for more advanced pathology. However, many common shoulder conditions can be diagnosed without imaging, and may be initially treated with a short course of rest, ice, topical analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, directed and supervised physical therapy, and occasionally subacromial corticosteroid injections. As always, a detailed history and a thorough physical exam by a primary care physician are vital for diagnosis. When conservative measures fail, referral to an orthopaedic surgeon may be necessary for further patient management.     

Value of dynamic sonography in the management of shoulder pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of dynamic high resolution ultrasonography in the detection of abnormalities of rheumatoid arthritis and to find out the value added to the management plan of the disease.

Patients and methods

21 shoulders of rheumatoid arthritis patients complaining of shoulder pain were scanned with ultrasound (static and dynamic) and compared to clinical examination.

Result

The most predictive sign of rheumatoid arthritis was sub-acromial impingement which was screened and graded by ultrasound in (100%). Other US signs included sub-acromial bursitis in 14.2%, biceps teno-synovitis in 52.4%, supraspinatous tendinopathy in 57.1%, supraspinatous partial thickness bursal surface tear in 14.2% and joint effusion in 9.5% of our patients. The combination of more than one finding was of higher sensitivity than isolated sign alone.

Conclusion

Dynamic ultrasound examination for the diagnosis of shoulder impingement in Rheumatoid arthritis should be done in addition to the clinical and static ultrasound examination to improve the management plan.     

肩胛骨骨折的手术治疗

目的探讨肩胛骨骨折手术入路的选择及分析临床应用效果。方法从1997年7月—2009年1月对31例肩胛骨骨折患者采用三种不同的手术入路进行内固定,对比其临床适应证,分析治疗效果。结果 31例患者全部得到随访,按照Constant的评定标准:优22例,良6例,可3例,优良率为90.3%。结论肩胛骨骨折通过手术治疗可获得良好的疗效,不同的骨折类型应采用不同手术入路,可获得更好的治疗效果。     

改良外展支架治疗肩部骨折的效果分析

 目的 评价肩关节改良外展支架治疗肩部骨折的临床疗效. 方法将108例肩部骨折患者随机分为普通外展支架固定组和改良外展支架固定组,每组各54例,观察两种外展支架治疗肩部骨折的效果,主要包括疼痛缓解和肩关节功能活动度等方面的比较,在治疗8、12周后随访结果. 结果治疗8、12周后,在缓解骨折后疼痛和改善肩关节功能活动度等方面,改良外展支架组优于普通外展支架组.结论 肩关节改良外展支架治疗肩部骨折疗效显著,在缓解疼痛和改善肩关节功能活动的效果上明显优于普通外展支架,具有很好的临床使用价值.     

Intra- and inter-reliability of fleximetry in individuals with chronic shoulder pain

ObjectiveTo evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of fleximetry in the measurement of range of motion (ROM) in individuals with chronic shoulder pain.DesignReliability study.SettingPhysiotherapy clinic.ParticipantsThirty individuals of both genders, ages between 18 and 45 years, with chronic shoulder pain.Main outcome measuresFleximetry was used to measurement shoulder ROM (flexion, hyperextension, abduction, medial and lateral rotation, and horizontal abduction and adduction). Two examiners performed the evaluations of the shoulder ROM at two time points (interval of one week between them).ResultsIn the intra-rater reliability, substantial to excellent reliability was found, with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values ranging from 0.79 to 0.92, standard error of the measurement (SEM) values ranging from 5.70 to 8.72°, and minimum detectable change (MDC) values varying between 15.80 and 25.18°. Regarding the inter-rater reliability, moderate to excellent reliability was observed, with ICC values ranging from 0.68 to 0.96, SEM values ranging from 4.98 to 11.53°, and MDC values ranging from 13.82 to 31.97°.ConclusionThe use of the fleximeter to measure shoulder ROM presents acceptable reliability values in individuals with chronic shoulder pain, which supports the use of this method of evaluation in research and clinical practice.     

Posterior detachment of the glenoid labrum in athletes with posttraumatic chronic shoulder pain

We examined 20 consecutively admitted athletes suffering from chronic shoulder pain for more than 6 months following a single shoulder trauma without dislocation. Two of them suffered from a posterior detachment of the glenoid labrum. Both had pain during loading, especially during over-the-head activities, with a clicking sensation. No previous dislocation of the involved dominant arm was recorded. Both were resistant to conservative treatment. On examination both patients had slightly decreased range of motion, a positive posterior apprehension sign and a negative impingement sign/test. One shoulder was clinically unstable. Special X-ray identified one minor avulsion of the posterior margin of the glenoid cavity. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a total posterior glenolabral detachment in both patients and also a bony avulsion of the glenoid posterior margin in one. Arthroscopy identified the posterior labral lesions and reinsertion of the detached labrum using the Mitek-anchor system was performed. After 1 year, both were able to participate in shoulder-demanding sports. In conclusion, posterior labral detachment might cause chronic shoulder pain after a single nondislocating shoulder trauma in athletes.     

浮肩损伤手术治疗的临床分析

目的探讨浮肩损伤的发病机制、临床特点及手术治疗策略。方法笔者回顾分析2005年5月~2014年3月期间经手术治疗的浮肩损伤25例(男性19例,女性6例;年龄22~61岁,平均41.7岁),其中行单纯锁骨骨折或肩锁关节脱位内固定14例,联合固定肩胛颈(盂)11例,根据手术前后Constant-Murley评分(CMS)及前后盂极角(GPA)的变化对患者的疗效进行评价。结果 25例随访6~24个月,平均12.7个月;25例术前CMS(64.0±8.4)分,末次随访时CMS(89.3±7.2)分,其改善有统计学意义(P0.05)。术前GPA为(20.6±5.9)°,末次随访GPA为(34.6±3.6)°,显示经过手术治疗GPA改善明显(P0.05)。锁骨固定组与联合固定组术前GPA、肩胛颈(盂)的移位、成角数值有统计学差异(P0.05),两组末次随访GPA及CMS无统计学差异(P0.05)。结论早期手术治疗可稳定肩关节上方悬吊体,恢复肩胛颈的解剖结构,疗效满意,手术方式应结合患者肩胛颈的移位、旋转角度及GPA值等个体化制定。     

Arthroscopy of the shoulder

Arthroscopy of the shoulder has developed during the last decade to play a major role in diagnoses and treatment of a variety of shoulder disorders. In most incidences, arthroscopy is required at the time of shoulder surgery to refine the final diagnosis. In over 75% of the cases are arthroscopic methods used for surgical repair of the shoulder pathology. This article describes the indications for surgery as well as the techniques to treat rotator cuff disease label injuries, etc. with the arthroscope. The arthroscopic techniques dealing with subacromial decompression and instability is described.     

Idiopathic adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder: a review

Many terms have been used to describe what has been called idiopathic adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. This pathology is defined as a self-limiting condition of unknown etiology. The natural history is 18–30 months even though a high-percentage of patient present impaired range of movement even at long-term follow-up. The diagnosis is mainly clinical and no significant changes are normally present at MRI or CT scan. Several treatment options have been tried over the years with different approaches and results.     

Adhesive capsulitis: role of MR imaging in differential diagnosis

The purpose of this study was to describe and characterize the MR imaging findings in a group of patients who underwent surgery for adhesive capsulitis. Twenty-four MR imaging studies in 24 consecutive patients with clinical evidence of adhesive capsulitis were performed prior to arthroscopic capsulotomy. There were 17 women and 7 men with a mean age of 53.5 years. Images were scrutinised for changes in the synovium particularly in the rotator interval, around the biceps anchor and axillary pouch. Intravenous gadolinium was given routinely. We also examined a control group of 22 patients who underwent the same MR imaging protocol after referral for rotator cuff pathology. Soft tissue density showing variable enhancement after gadolinium administration was visible in the rotator interval in 22 of 24 studies on MR imaging. Seventeen patients showed soft tissue density partially encasing the biceps anchor. Ten patients showed thickening and gadolinium enhancement of the axillary pouch. Three patients from the study cohort had partial tears of the supraspinatus tendon. All the patients subsequently had surgery which confirmed fibrovascular scar tissue in the rotator interval, around the biceps anchor and a variable degree of synovial inflammation of the glenohumeral capsule. Two patients from a control group with suspected rotator cuff pathology showed abnormal intensity in the rotator interval on MR imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging can identify changes in the shoulder joint that correspond to abnormalities seen at surgery. This may be useful for discriminating adhesive capsulitis from other causes of shoulder pain.     

Ultrasound measurement of rotator cuff thickness and acromio-humeral distance in the diagnosis of subacromial impingement syndrome of the shoulder

The usefulness of ultrasound measurements in the diagnosis of the subacromial impingement syndrome of the shoulder was evaluated. Fifty-seven patients with unilateral symptoms of the impingement syndrome underwent ultrasound examination of both shoulder joints, which included assessment of rotator cuff integrity, measurement of rotator cuff thickness and the distance between the infero-lateral edge of acromion and the apex of the greater tuberosity of humerus (AGT distance) in the standard ultrasonographic positions. As a control group, 36 volunteers (72 shoulders) with no history of shoulder pain were examined sonographically. Ultrasonographic assessment of humeral head elevation, measured as the AGT distance, proved to be useful in establishing the diagnosis of the subacromial impingement syndrome of the shoulder. A difference in rotator cuff thickness of more than 1.1 mm and a difference in the AGT distance of more than 2.1 mm between both shoulder joints may reflect dysfunction of rotator cuff muscles.     

Risk factors for shoulder pain and injury in swimmers: A critical systematic review

Swimming is one of the most popular recreational and competitive sporting activities. In the 2013/2014 swimming season, 9630 men and 12,333 women were registered with the National Collegiate Athletics Association in the USA. The repetitive nature of the swimming stroke and demanding training programs of its athletes raises a number of concerns regarding incidence and severity of injuries that a swimmer might experience during a competitive season. A number of risk factors have previously been identified but the level of evidence from individual studies, as well as the level of certainty that these factors predispose a swimmer to pain and injury, to our knowledge has yet to be critically evaluated in a systematic review. Therefore, the primary objective of this review is to conduct a systematic review to critically assess the published evidence for risk factors that may predispose a swimmer to shoulder pain and injury. Three electronic databases, ScienceDirect, PubMed and SpringerLink, were searched using keywords “(Injury OR pain) AND (Swim*)” and “(Shoulder) AND (Swim*)”. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2731 unique titles were identified and were analyzed to a final 29 articles. Only articles with a level of evidence of I, II and III were included according to robust study design and data analysis. The level of certainty for each risk factor was determined. No studies were determined to have a high level of certainty, clinical joint laxity and instability, internal/external rotation, previous history of pain and injury and competitive level were determined to have a moderate level of certainty. All other risk factors were evaluated as having a low level of certainty. Although several risk factors were identified from the reviewed studies, prospective cohort studies, larger sample sizes, consistent and robust measures of risk should be employed in future research.     

Postoperative MRI of the shoulder

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of the postoperative shoulder presents technical and diagnostic challenges related to imaging artifacts from hardware and micrometallic shavings, postsurgical scarring, and morphological alterations. Improved visualization of postoperative shoulder anatomy and pathology can be obtained with the use of metal artifact reduction techniques as well as MR arthrography. In this article we review the MR techniques that are designed to address these technical and diagnostic challenges, and we discuss the definitions and indications, normal MRI appearance, and complications of routine surgical procedures for treatment of injuries to the rotator cuff, labral ligamentous complex, and biceps tendon. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:1280–1297 . © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc .     

Diagnostic evaluation of athletes with posttraumatic chronic shoulder pain

We examined 20 consecutively admitted athletes suffering from chronic shoulder pain for more than 6 months following a single shoulder trauma without dislocation. All had pain during loading, especially during over-the-head activities with a clicking sensation, and symptoms of dead arm were also present. On examination, 8 patients had decreased range of motion and 14 patients had a positive apprehension test. Three had signs of impingement. Diagnostic evaluation with special X-ray, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy identified IS lateral tears, 3 partial and 1 total rotator cuff lesions and 2 patients with synovitis of the rotator cuff with subacromial impingement. Three patients had tendinitis of the biceps tendon and 1 had a lesion of the greater tubercle. In conclusion, chronic shoulder pain after a single nondislocated shoulder trauma in athletes should be evaluated due to a possible intraarticular cause of the pain. MRI seems to be the most valuable noninvasive method of evaluating patients with chronic shoulder pain and should be performed before arthroscopy and operative procedures.