The incidence of ossified superior transverse scapular ligament during nerve transfer through posterior shoulder approach

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence and importance of bony bridge that covers the supra scapular notch during posterior approach to transfer accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve. Methods: Between 2010 and 2015, the frequency and importance of suprascapular bony bridge instead of transverse ligament was assessed among patients with brachial plexus injury candidate to shoulder function restoration by accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer through posterior approach. Results: Forty three patients, 41 male and 2 female, (mean age: 32.5 years, range 14 to 36) were included in this study. Five male patients (11.6) had a complete bony rim on the superior scapular notch. Suprascapular nerve release needed osteotomy of the bony bridge and related equipment. Conclusion: Although all previous cadaveric studies among different ethnic groups had reported the prevalence between 0.3 to 30 of suprascapular canal, this in vivo study showed the incidence of 11.6. Preoperative alertness about this variation could make the exploration and release of the suprascapular nerve easier and reduce the risk of nerve injury or failing to anatomize it. COPYRIGHT 2019 © BY THE ARCHIVES OF BONE AND JOINT SURGERY