Outcomes of endoscopic, thoracic segment long thoracic nerve decompression
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Axillary and inferior periscapular pain often presents with scapulothoracic abnormal motion and observable winging and can be debilitating for patients. Our hypothesis is that endoscopic long thoracic nerve (LTN) decompression in the thoracic segment is effective at improving axillary and inferior periscapular border pain. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients diagnosed with persistent axillary and inferior periscapular border pain receiving endoscopic LTN decompression at a single institution, performed by 2 surgeons between 2020 and 2024. Patient demographics and patient pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcome measures were collected. Results: = .11) remained unchanged. There were 4 (n = 4/31; 12.9%) complications characterized as persistent pain after surgery. There was one revision endoscopic LTN release (n = 1/31; 3.2%). There was no predictive patient (age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, smoking status, diabetes, prior ipsilateral surgery) or surgical (operating room time) factors predisposing to surgical complications using logistic regression. Conclusion: Thoracic-based, endoscopic decompression of the LTN improves pain, patient-reported outcome measures, and range of motion with minimal complications. Further study is required to determine long-term pain relief and outcomes.
Institutions: Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,370
OpenAlex ID: W4416869568