Work

Case Report: Spinoglenoid notch cysts associated with type II SLAP lesions: a report of two cases and review of the literature

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Spinoglenoid notch cysts associated with type II superior labrum anterior-to-posterior (SLAP) lesions are an uncommon cause of suprascapular nerve compression. Case Presentation: This report presents two patients with posterior shoulder pain, weakness of inverted glenohumeral external rotation, and isolated infraspinatus atrophy. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed spinoglenoid notch cysts communicating with type II SLAP lesions in both cases. Both patients underwent arthroscopic labral repair through standard SLAP portals, with intra-articular decompression of the cysts through the pre-existing capsular defect, avoiding additional dissection within the spinoglenoid notch. Postoperative rehabilitation and follow-up imaging demonstrated complete resolution of the cysts, restoration of infraspinatus muscle bulk, and recovery of external rotation strength. Conclusions: These cases demonstrate that arthroscopic labral repair, combined with indirect cyst decompression, can achieve complete cyst resolution and muscle recovery for selected patients. The findings support the potential reversibility of compression-related muscle atrophy following timely nerve decompression and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized management.

Source: Frontiers in Surgery

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2026.1792792

Authors: Jianan Ouyang, Weiming Guo, Fen Luo

Institutions: Shenzhen University, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical College, University of South China

Language: English

Topic: Shoulder Injury and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801