Suprascapular nerve neuropathy secondary to spinoglenoid notch ganglion cyst: case reports and review of literature

Abstract

Introduction: Suprascapular nerve neuropathy secondary to ganglion cyst impingement has increasingly been found to be a cause of shoulder pain.

Clinical picture: We present 2 patients who complained of dull, poorly localised shoulder pain, which worsened with overhead activities. Magnetic resonance imaging showed ganglion cysts in the spinoglenoid notch.

Treatment: Both patients failed conservative management with physiotherapy and underwent shoulder arthroscopy. One patient underwent arthroscopic decompression of the cyst and the other had open excision of the cyst.

Outcome: Both patients experienced resolution of symptoms within 6 months of surgery.

Conclusion: With appropriate treatment, suprascapular nerve neuropathy secondary to ganglion cyst impingement is a treatable condition with potentially good results.