Acromial morphology and morphometry associated with subacromial impingement syndrome

Abstract

Acromion is a major associated structure of subacromial impingement syndrome, one of the most common diagnoses in chronic shoulder pain world-wide. The aims of this study are to study morphometry of acromion and to find risk group using acromial morphometry. Total samples were 392 scapulae. The samples were of both sexes, ranging from the age of 31 to 90. Acromion type and osteophytes were observed. Acromial parameters were measured. The relationships were analyzed among acromion type, acromial osteophyte, acromial parameters, age group, sex and side. Curved acromion had the highest prevalence in all age groups. Hooked acromion had the second highest prevalence since the age of 41. Hooked acromion prevalence was higher in male than in female. The highest prevalence of acromial osteophytes was on anteroinferior surface in all age group. The prevalence of acromial osteophytes on anteroinferior surface and acromial facet increased with age. In addition, acromion type was associated with only osteophytes on anteroinferior surface of acromion. Anterior one-third acromial thickness in the age of 31 to 50 was different from those of 51 to 90. There are differences between all parameters and sexes, but not side. General population with age above 50 and concerned male group with age above 40 who have chronic shoulder pain should be investigated for subacromial impingement syndrome. Surgical treatment is recommended because hooked acromion and osteophytes are mostly the root of problem.