Effective arthroscopic treatment of large, anteriorly extended spinoglenoid cysts

Abstract

Despite their rarity, several modalities have been used to treat spinoglenoid cysts of the shoulder. Recently, a report was issued on arthroscopic decompression through a communication hole and posterior capsulotomy through the glenohumeral joint. However, complete cystectomy is not possible using these methods if a cyst is large or extends anteriorly. Here, the authors describe a method of extra-articular complete cystectomy through the bursal space, which was used in three patients with large spinoglenoid cysts that extended anteriorly. All three patients were able to return to work without restriction, and in the two patients that underwent follow-up MRIs, cysts were completely resolved and the infraspinatus muscle mass had partially recovered.