Arthroscopic excision of symptomatic osteochondroma of the ventral scapula: A case report

Osteochondromas are benign neoplasms composed of cortical and medullary bone, with a hyaline cartilage cap. Scapular osteochondromas represents 4.6 % of all osteochondromas and may present on either the dorsal or ventral surface of the scapula. Ventral scapula osteochondromas may lead to limited range of motion, pain, rib cage irritation with subsequent bursa formation, scapula winging and snapping scapula syndrome. Although rare, traditional surgical removal of ventral scapula osteochondromas involves excision, via an open surgical approach, with a potential iatrogenic component. We report a 39-year-old female presenting with several year history of symptoms, who underwent arthroscopic excision of the ventral scapular osteochondroma. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) defined a ventral scapula osteochondroma estimated at 3.5 × 3.5 cm in size and appeared to abut the right third and fourth ribs. The osteochondroma was endoscopically excised with no iatrogenic complications. 12 months after arthroscopic excision the patient reported having 0–1/10 VAS pain and improved shoulder motion. She did not require analgesics, returned to a manual job, and was able to comfortably sit in a chair and sleep. This report demonstrated an endoscopic excision, with benefit over traditional open excision, without complications and beneficial outcome.