Variations in the course and diameter of the suprascapular nerve: Anatomical study

Abstract

Suprascapular neuropathy is an important factor contributing to shoulder pain. Given the prevalence of nerve injury and nerve block in the suprascapular notch region, as well as the frequency of arthroscopic procedures on the suprascapular notch, which are recommended in shoulder pain management, its morphology is relevant from a clinical perspective. (2) Methods_ Suprascapular nerve course was studied in twelve shoulders by dissection. Its diameter was measuredat omohyoid level, proximal to the suprascapular notch and distal to the espinoglenoid notch. A multivarichart was used in order to descriptively visualize the results. The variations found were analyzed with a mixed linear model. (3) Results_ In two of the six subjects, the suprascapular nerve was divided into two motor branches proximal to the superior transverse scapular ligament. An increasein diameter around the suprascapular notch was detected, with an estimated difference between diameter means of 2.008 mm at the suprascapular notch level and 2.047 mm at the spinoglenoid notch level. (4) Conclusions_ A difference in the estimated diameter detected and the fact that the motor branches, which innervate supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscle, were divided proximal to the suprascapular notch may be relevant in the diagnosis and treatment of suprascapular neuropathyand arthroscopic procedures