Learning objectives
Review of the anatomy and the function of the scapulothoracic joint with a focus on the appropriate MRI protocol.
Evaluation of the most common imaging findings of elastofibroma dorsi and scapulothoracic bursitis as an important differential diagnosis of posterior shoulder pain in the absence of rotator cuff pathology.
Provide an image-based approach for the diagnosis of the most common mimickers of these conditions
Background
The scapulothoracic interface is a relatively neglected anatomic entity,
that has not been comprehensively evaluated in the literature.
Nonetheless,
in our experience as an orthopaedic oncology center,
we encounter many different pathologies affecting the scapulothoracic joint.
These include inflammatory and neoplastic.
The aim of this pictorial review is to underline the imaging features,
which may aid as a diagnostic tool in reaching a sensible differential diagnosis.
Findings and procedure details
I.
ANATOMY
The ST joint is a non-synovial articulation between two bony structures:
the scapula; in particular the anterior concave surface
the convex posterior aspect of the upper portion of the rib cage.
Two muscles are interposed between these osseous structures
the subscapularis on the scapular side
the serratus anterior on the thoracic side
And two synovial bursae assist the sliding movement:
the subscapularis bursa: interposed betweenthe subscapularis muscle and the serratus anterior muscle
the scapulothoracic: between the serratus anterior and the rib cage
Two...
Conclusion
We present the imaging features of a wide spectrum of pathologies involving the scapulothoracic joint.
Personal information
Alessandro Vidoni
Clinical Fellow at the Musculoskeletal Radiology Department of the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital,
Birmingham,
UK
For questions and/or comments about this poster,
please contact me at:
[email protected]
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