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Wagner ER, Gottschalk MB, Ahmed AS, Graf AR, Karzon AL. Novel Diagnostic and Treatment Techniques for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Tech Hand Up Extrem Surg 2023; 27:100-114. [PMID: 36515356 DOI: 10.1097/bth.0000000000000419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome is a challenging condition to diagnose and treat, often precipitated by the triad of repetitive overhead activity, pectoralis minor contracture, and scapular dyskinesia. The resultant protracted scapular posture creates gradual repetitive traction injury of the suprascapular nerve via tethering at the suprascapular notch and decreases the volume of the brachial plexus cords and axillary vessels in the retropectoralis minor space. A stepwise and exhaustive diagnostic protocol is essential to exclude alternate pathologies and confirm the diagnosis of this dynamic pathologic process. Ultrasound-guided injections of local anesthetic or botulinum toxin are a key factor in confirming the diagnosis and prognosticating potential response from surgical release. In patients who fail over 6 months of supervised physical therapy aimed at correcting scapular posture and stretching of the pectoralis minor, arthroscopic surgical release is indicated. We present our diagnostic algorithm and technique for arthroscopic suprascapular neurolysis, pectoralis minor release, brachial plexus neurolysis, and infraclavicular thoracic outlet decompression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Wagner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
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Stern E, Karzon AL, Hussain ZB, Khawaja SR, Cooke HL, Pirkle S, Bowers RL, Gottschalk MB, Wagner ER. Arthroscopic Pectoralis Minor Release After Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Novel Consideration for Postarthroplasty Pain. JBJS Case Connect 2023; 13:01709767-202306000-00024. [PMID: 37146169 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.22.00804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
CASE A 74-year-old male patient presenting with chronic radiating shoulder pain, paresthesias, and weakness had previously undergone reverse shoulder arthroplasty and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for an irreparable cuff tear and cervical radiculopathy, respectively. After being diagnosed with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome and undergoing physiotherapy, the patient's recalcitrant condition was surgically managed with arthroscopic pectoralis minor tenotomy, suprascapular nerve release, and brachial plexus neurolysis. CONCLUSION This ultimately led to complete pain relief and improved function. By sharing this case, we aim to shed light on this overlooked pathology and help prevent unnecessary procedures for others suffering from similar conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elinor Stern
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Ahmed AS, Graf AR, Karzon AL, Graulich BL, Egger AC, Taub SM, Gottschalk MB, Bowers RL, Wagner ER. Pectoralis minor syndrome - review of pathoanatomy, diagnosis, and management of the primary cause of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome. JSES REVIEWS, REPORTS, AND TECHNIQUES 2022; 2:469-488. [PMID: 37588453 PMCID: PMC10426640 DOI: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2022.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Thoracic outlet syndrome is an umbrella term for compressive pathologies in the supraclavicular and infraclavicular fossae, with the vast majority being neurogenic in nature. These compressive neuropathies, such as pectoralis minor syndrome, can be challenging problems for both patients and physicians. Robust understanding of thoracic outlet anatomy and scapulothoracic biomechanics are necessary to distinguish neurogenic vs. vascular disorders and properly diagnose affected patients. Repetitive overhead activity, particularly when combined with scapular dyskinesia, leads to pectoralis minor shortening, decreased volume of the retropectoralis minor space, and subsequent brachial plexus compression causing neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome. Combining a thorough history, physical examination, and diagnostic modalities including ultrasound-guided injections are necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Rigorous attention must be paid to rule out alternate etiologies such as peripheral neuropathies, vascular disorders, cervical radiculopathy, and space-occupying lesions. Initial nonoperative treatment with pectoralis minor stretching, as well as periscapular and postural retraining, is successful in the majority of patients. For patients that fail nonoperative management, surgical release of the pectoralis minor may be performed through a variety of approaches. Both open and arthroscopic pectoralis minor release may be performed safely with effective resolution of neurogenic symptoms. When further indicated by the preoperative workup, this can be combined with suprascapular nerve release and brachial plexus neurolysis for complete infraclavicular thoracic outlet decompression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil S. Ahmed
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alexander R. Graf
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anthony L. Karzon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Anthony C. Egger
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Taub
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael B. Gottschalk
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robert L. Bowers
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eric R. Wagner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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A clinical case of a combined endoscopic treatment: brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture and subacromial spacer implantation. КЛИНИЧЕСКАЯ ПРАКТИКА 2022. [DOI: 10.17816/clinpract109942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thoracic outlet syndrome compression of the brachial plexus in the area between the clavicle and the first rib is a commonly spread and important pathology. It occurs, as usual, after a trauma or due to an anatomical malformation of this area. Thoracic outlet syndrome can be combined with a shoulder joint pathology. In the case of a conservative treatment's failure, the standard surgical procedure is decompression of the brachial plexus in the thoracic aperture. This procedure is usually done via an open approach. The development of the endoscopic surgical technique of decompression allows reducing the risk of complications and recurrences, improving the cosmetic result and relieving the rehabilitation period. Clinical case description: A 73-year-old female patient with a clinical picture of posttraumatic brachial plexopathy and a massive shoulder rotator cuff tear. The patient underwent a conservative treatment for 6 months after the trauma without a significant improvement. To confirm the diagnosis, ENMG and an ultrasound investigation of the brachial plexus, as well as MRI of the shoulder joint were performed. Simultaneous shoulder joint arthroscopy with subacromial spacer implantation and brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture were performed to the patient. According to the VAS-scale (Visual Analogue Scale), the severity of pain syndrome before the surgery was 10 cm, while 6 months after the surgery, it decreased to 1 cm. According to the DASH scale (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), the dysfunction of the of shoulder joint before the surgery was 76 points, while 6 months after the surgery, it decreased to 12 points. The range of motion in the shoulder joint before the surgery was as follows: flexion 105, abduction 95, external rotation 15, which increased to 160, 165, and 45, respectively, 6 months after the surgery. Conclusion: The results allow us to characterize the method of simultaneous shoulder joint arthroscopy and endoscopic decompression of the brachial plexus in the thoracic aperture as a low-traumatic and effective technique. The technique provides complete brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture which promotes restoration of the function of the upper extremity and shoulder joint, and elimination of pain syndrome from the upper extremity area.
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Haeni D, Martinez-Catalan N, Esper RN, Wagner ER, El Hassan BT, Sanchez-Sotelo J. Arthroscopic release of the pectoralis minor tendon from the coracoid for pectoralis minor syndrome. J Exp Orthop 2022; 9:57. [PMID: 35713735 PMCID: PMC9206061 DOI: 10.1186/s40634-022-00491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The term “pectoralis minor syndrome” refers to this constellation of symptoms that can occur when the pectoralis minor (Pm) is shortened and contracted. Release of the tendon of the Pm from the coracoid has been reported to provide substantial clinical improvement to patients presenting with pectoralis minor syndrome. The purpose of this study was (1) to describe the technique for endoscopic release of pectoralis minor tendon at the subdeltoid space, (2) to classify the pectoralis minor syndrome according to its severity and (3) and to report the short-term outcomes of this procedure in a consecutive series of patients diagnosed with pectoralis minor syndrome. Methods Endoscopic release of the pectoralis minor tendon was performed in a series of 10 patients presenting with pectoralis minor syndrome. There were six females and four males with a median age at the time of surgery of 42 (range from 20 to 58) years. Four shoulders were categorized as grade I (scapular dyskinesis), and six as grade II (intermittent brachial plexopathy). Shoulders were evaluated for pain, motion, satisfaction, subjective shoulder value (SSV), quick-DASH, ASES score, and complications. The mean follow-up time was 19 (range, 6 to 49) months. Results Arthroscopic release of the tendon of the Pm led to substantial resolution of pectoralis minor syndrome symptoms in all but one shoulder, which was considered a failure. Preoperatively, the median VAS for pain was 8.5 (range, 7–10) and the mean SSV was 20% (range, 10% - 50%). At most recent follow-up the mean VAS for pain was 1 (range, 0–6) and the mean SSV 80% (range, 50% - 90%). Before surgery, mean ASES and quick-DASH scores were 19.1 (range, 10–41.6) and 83.1 (range, 71 and 95.5) points respectively. At most recent follow-up, mean ASES and quick-DASH scores were 80.1 (range, 40–100) and 19.3 (range, 2.3–68) points respectively. No surgical complications occurred in any of the shoulder included in this study. Conclusions Endoscopic release of the tendon of the pectoralis minor from the coracoid improves pain, function and patient reported outcomes in the majority of patients presenting with the diagnosis of isolated pectoralis minor syndrome. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40634-022-00491-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Haeni
- ALTIUS Swiss Sportmed Center, Rheinfelden, Switzerland
| | - Natalia Martinez-Catalan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital Fundación Jiménez Diaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ronda N Esper
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA
| | - Eric R Wagner
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bassem T El Hassan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA
| | - Joaquin Sanchez-Sotelo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA.
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Lafosse T, Fortané T, McBride A, Salentiny Y, Sahin K, Lafosse L. Technical Guide and Tips to Anterior Arthroscopic Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Irreparable Subscapularis Tears. Arthrosc Tech 2020; 9:e1737-e1745. [PMID: 33294335 PMCID: PMC7695617 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2020.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In young patients, irreparable subscapularis tears can be managed by latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer on the lesser tuberosity. We provide a technical guide for isolated LD anterior transfer. The surgical procedure begins with glenohumeral exploration and release of the remaining subscapularis. Then, we dissect the LD tendon below the subscapularis. At the upper and inferior borders, we dissect the LD from the teres major, protecting the radial nerve anteriorly and inferiorly. Next, we detach the LD. Inferiorly, we cut the aponeurotic expansion for the triceps. A Foley catheter is used as a shuttle relay, anterior to the axillary nerve and medial and posterior to the radial nerve. We continue with an open dissection of the LD, posterior to the axillary fossa, to release the LD from the skin and tip of the scapula. The LD is transferred on the lesser tuberosity after retrieved by the Foley catheter, with care taken not to twist the tendon. It is fixed with 2 lateral anchors and 1 medial anchor. A shoulder brace is worn for 6 weeks. Physiotherapy begins thereafter.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thibaut Fortané
- Address correspondence to Thibaut Fortané, M.D., Alps Surgery Institute, Clinique Générale d’Annecy; 4 Chemin de la Tour la Reine, 74000 Annecy, France.
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Endoscopic brachial plexus neurolysis in the management of infraclavicular nerve injuries due to glenohumeral dislocation. Injury 2020; 51:2592-2600. [PMID: 32778326 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infraclavicular brachial plexus (BP) injury secondary to glenohumeral joint (GHJ) dislocation is a rather common complication, which may be accountable for long-lasting deficits. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential benefits of BP neurolysis in such presentation, using an endoscopic approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS All patients who underwent endoscopic BP neurolysis in the setting of infraclavicular BP palsy due to GHJ dislocation were included. Preoperative physical examination was conducted to classify the observed motor and sensitive deficits into nerves and/or cord lesions. Six weeks after the trauma, examination was repeated and endoscopic BP neurolysis was elected if no significant improvements were observed. If nerve ruptures and/or severe damages were identified during surgery, nerve reconstructions were conducted within a month; in other cases, follow-up examinations were conducted at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months to assess the course of postoperative recovery. RESULTS Eleven patients were included, including 6 men and 5 women, with a mean age of 43 ± 23 years (16;73). Six patients had at least one cord involved, four patients had isolated axillary nerve palsy, and one patient had a complete BP palsy. In 7 patients with cord lesions and/or isolated axillary nerve palsy, at least grade-3 strength, according to the British Medical Research Council grading system, was noted in all affected muscles within 6 weeks following the neurolysis; after 3 months of follow-up, grade-4 strength was observed in all muscles, and all but patients but one had fully recovered within 6 months. In 3 patients with isolated axillary nerve palsy, complete nerve ruptures (n=2) and severe damages (n=1) were identified under scopic magnification; secondary nerve transfers were conducted to reanimate the axillary nerve, and all patients fully recovered within a year. In one patient with complete BP palsy, improvements started after 6 months of follow-up, and full recovery was yielded after 2 years. No intra- and/or postoperative complications were noted. CONCLUSIONS At the cost of minimal additional morbidity, endoscopic BP neurolysis appears to be a safe and reliable procedure to shorten recovery delays in most patients presenting with BP palsy due to GHJ dislocation.
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Bader D, Lafosse T, Garcia JC. Endoscopic Release of the Brachial Plexus. Arthrosc Tech 2020; 9:e1565-e1569. [PMID: 33134061 PMCID: PMC7587459 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2020.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a debilitating condition, impairing the function of the upper limb, and can be considered an entrapment of neurovascular structures dedicated to the upper limb. Its open treatment uses a large approach, and to date, only the structures under the clavicle have been endoscopically approached. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe an endoscopic brachial plexus decompression at all possible entrapment areas between the neck and the arm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thibault Lafosse
- Alps Surgery Institute, Hand, Upper Limb, Brachial Plexus, and Microsurgery Unit (PBMA), Clinique Générale, Annecy, France
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Lafosse T, Le Hanneur M, Popescu IA, Bihel T, Masmejean E, Lafosse L. All-Endoscopic Resection of an Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Schwannoma: Surgical Technique. Arthrosc Tech 2018; 7:e869-e873. [PMID: 30167367 PMCID: PMC6112194 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to recent progress in shoulder arthroscopy, all-endoscopic brachial plexus (BP) dissection has progressively become a standardized procedure. Based on previously described techniques, we present an additional neurological procedure that may be performed all-endoscopically, that is, the excision of an infraclavicular BP schwannoma. Starting from a standard shoulder arthroscopy with posterior and lateral portals, additional anterior and medial portals are progressively opened outside the joint under endoscopic control to access the BP. At first, dissection of the subcoracoid space allows the identification of the posterior and lateral cords, along with the axillary artery. Then, by performing a pectoralis minor tenotomy, the medial cord and axillary vein are exposed, giving access to the whole infraclavicular plexus. Intraneural dissection is performed using arthroscopic tools such as a long beaver blade, a grasper, and a smooth dissector to progressively extract the encapsulated tumor from the nerve without any damage. Using a standardized technique, endoscopy may be an advantageous tool in selected cases of BP benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Lafosse
- Alps Surgery Institute, Clinique Générale d’Annecy, Annecy, France,Department of Hand, Upper Limb and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Georges-Pompidou European Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Malo Le Hanneur
- Department of Hand, Upper Limb and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Georges-Pompidou European Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France,Address correspondence to Malo Le Hanneur, M.D., Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Service of Hand, Upper Limb and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Georges-Pompidou European Hospital, 20 Rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France.
| | - Ion-Andrei Popescu
- Alps Surgery Institute, Clinique Générale d’Annecy, Annecy, France,go:h Gelenkchirurgie Orthopädie Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Bihel
- Department of Hand, Upper Limb and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Georges-Pompidou European Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Masmejean
- Department of Hand, Upper Limb and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Georges-Pompidou European Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Lafosse
- Alps Surgery Institute, Clinique Générale d’Annecy, Annecy, France
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Kartus JT. Editorial Commentary: Distal Mononeuropathy in Conjunction With Rotator Cuff Repair: Don't Forget the Preoperative Assessment. Arthroscopy 2018; 34:1192. [PMID: 29622255 DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.11.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Distal mononeuropathy can be a pre-existing condition in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. It can also develop after the surgical procedure.
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