Suprascapular neuropathy caused by heterotopic ossification after clavicle shaft fracture: a case report

Suprascapular neuropathy is a rare peripheral neuropathy that can be easily overlooked in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain and dysfunction. The suprascapular nerve may be injured as a result of repetitive overuse, constriction due to anatomic variants, compression due to space occupying lesions, retraction due to a massive rotator cuff tear and iatrogenic or traumatic lesions. Trauma-related suprascapular neuropathies are often caused by glenohumeral joint dislocations, scapular fractures, proximal humeral fractures, penetrating injuries and displaced clavicle fractures. Although many causes of suprascapular neuropathy have been described, there have been few reports of suprascapular neuropathy caused by heterotophic ossification after trauma around shoulder. Heterotophic ossification is the formation of bone in non-skeletal tissue, usually between the muscle and joint capsule. It usually occurs following trauma, surgery, burns, fractures, dislocation or soft tissue trauma. The spectrum of heterotophic ossification ranges from incidental radiographic findings to severe functional limitations. The range of motion can be decreased, resulting in soft tissue contractures. It can also cause peripheral neuropathy by impinging adjacent nerves. Management of heterotopic ossification is aimed at limiting its progression and maximizing function of the affected joint. Nonsurgical treatment is appropriate for early heterotopic ossification; however, surgical excision should be considered in cases of joint ankylosis or significant complications. We report a very unusual case of suprascapular neuropathy that resulted from heterotophic ossification after clavicle shaft fracture. This case was treated by open excision of the heterotophic ossification and external neurolysis of the suprascapular nerve. Although the incidence is very low, the heterotophic ossification should be considered as a possible cause of suprascapular neuropathy.