The use of three-dimensional computed tomography in evaluating snapping scapula syndrome

This article evaluates imaging of the scapula and scapulothoracic joint in patients with snapping scapula syndrome. Between 1990 and 1996, a total of 20 patients (10 men and 10 women) with snapping scapula syndrome were evalu ated. Diagnosis was based on patient complaints and physical examination fi ndings. There were 26 affected scapulae (6 patients had bilateral presentat ion). Imaging of the scapula included plain radiography, computed tomograph y (CT), and 3-dimensional computed tomography (3-D CT) reconstruction. Plain radiography revealed bony incongruity between the anterior aspect of the scapula and the chest wall in 7 scapulae, CT revealed such incongruity in 19 scapulae, and 3-D CT revealed incongruity in all 26 scapulae. Treatme nt was conservative, consisting of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a physiotherapy program, and subscapular injection of a local anesthetic and steroids. In 5 patients who responded poorly to conservative treatment, the region responsible for the snapping was resected. Pain relief and resoluti on of the snapping were complete following surgery in 4 patients, while pai n and crepitation persisted in the fifth. Three-dimensional CT is recommend ed as the main imaging modality in the evaluation of any patient with snapp ing scapula syndrome who is a candidate for surgical intervention.