Arthroscopic treatment of an unusual distal clavicle ostheochondroma causing rotator cuff impingement: case report and literature review

Shoulder impingement caused by distal clavicle osteochondroma

Introduction

One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is impingement syndrome, several structural changes of acromion, coracoid process, coracohumeral ligament and acroimclavicular joint could cause it; however a rare extrinsic benign tumor such as osteochondromas could also lead to shoulder impingement which could be treated successfully by arthroscopy.

Case report

We presented a successful arthroscopic resection of distal clavicle osteochondroma causing shoulder impingement in a 56-year-old male patient which was not responding to conservative management.

Conclusion

Shoulder impingement could be caused by a very rare pathology such as osteochondromas. Sever shoulder pain and decrease of shoulder range of motion are common patient symptoms. Plain x-rays and MRI might be enough radiological investigation to reach up a diagnosis. Arthroscopic resection of such lesions considered as safe and effective management approach with low complication rates and recurrence rates.