Ganglion cysts of the shoulder: technique of arthroscopic decompression and fixation of associated type II superior labral anterior to posterior lesions

Ganglion cysts of the shoulder and concomitant suprascapular nerve compression should be considered in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain. They are associated commonly with labral tears, most commonly SLAP lesions. MRI has become commonplace in evaluating shoulder pain and has led to the increased awareness of shoulder cysts. MRI accurately demonstrates the size and location of ganglions, which is critical when planning surgical intervention. It also has shown the frequent association of intra-articular pathology with these cysts. Despite that MRI can detect atrophy, the diagnosis of suprascapular nerve compression can be confirmed only by EMG/NCS, because the presence of a cyst does not necessarily mean the nerve is compressed. Likewise, a positive EMG does not confirm that the compression is caused by a ganglion cyst. EMG/NCVs are necessary for confirming the diagnosis and evaluating nerve and muscle function. A trial of nonoperative management is warranted; however, this is associated with a high failure rate. Aspiration techniques are successful for decompression of the cysts and initial pain relief; however, the intra-articular pathology is not addressed and there is a higher rate of recurrence. Open resection of the ganglion cyst is successful; however, the intra-articular labral tears are not addressed, which can lead to recurrence and the morbidity of the cyst excision is not warranted. Shoulder arthroscopy has led to the identification of associated intra-articular pathology such as SLAP lesions. These were not appreciated previously with open surgery and therefore were not addressed. Arthroscopic techniques have evolved to allow decompression of the ganglion cysts and repair of the labral lesions. This should decrease the possibility of recurrence of the cyst by eliminating the cyst and the pathologic lesion that created it. Arthroscopic excision also avoids much of the morbidity of the open approach and allows intra-articular pathology to be addressed concomitantly. This point has been emphasized by other investigators also. Furthermore, because of the limited surgical dissection, rehabilitation is able to begin earlier, with less patient discomfort and more prompt return to normal activities.