Scapular Winging after Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Case Report

doi:2019.21.2.104

J Electrodiagn Neuromuscul Dis > Volume 21(2); 2019 > Article

Case Report

J Korean Assoc EMG Electrodiagn Med 2019;21(2):104-108.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18214/jkaem.2019.21.2.104 Published online December 31, 2019.

Scapular Winging after Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Case Report

Received: 19 June 2019 • Revised: 16 October 2019 • Accepted: 1 November 2019

Abstract

The mobility of scapula has a central role in maintaining normal function of upper limb. Scapular winging is resulted by a failure of dynamic scapular stabilization against the thoracic wall, especially prominence of medial scapular border is a common condition. We report a rare case involving a 50-year old male who was diagnosed with scapular winging after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The patient was referred to the rehabilitation department due to a weakness of the left upper and lower extremities after cardiac arrest. He was found unconsciousness and CPR was performed by a bystander. Physical examination demonstrated that there was a medial scapular protrusion and a prominent weakness of the shoulder girdle. Electrodiagnostic studies indicated long thoracic nerve palsy. These results highlight the implications and probability of an injury to the long thoracic nerve in patients after CPR.

Key Words: scapular winging, long thoracic nerve injury, cardiopulmonary resuscitation