SUPRASCAPULAR NEUROPATHY AFTER DISTAL CLAVICLE EXCISION

Two cases of suprascapular neuropathy after excision of the distal cla vicle are reported. Both patients were treated successfully with neuro lysis of the suprascapular nerve starting at the upper trunk of the br achial plexus. Anatomic dissections revealed that the suprascapular ne rve is quite close (<1.4 cm) to the posterior aspect of the distal cla vicle, within 2 to 3 cm of the acromioclavicular joint. To avoid the c omplication of suprascapular neuropathy that could be associated with this close relationship, it is recommended that no more than 1 cm of t he distal clavicle be removed posteriorly. It is also recommended that minimal periosteal elevation should be performed on the posteroinferi or border of the distal clavicle.