Various previous studies have focused on ultrasound guided suprascapular nerve block techniques. However, only a few have explained the technique of visualizing the suprascapular notch (SSN), and none have explained a reproducible method to view the entire notch. The purpose of this study is to report a reproducible technique to view the entire SSN and superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) using an ultrasound scanner. We performed three viewing techniques using the Hitachi EUB-7500 ultrasound scanner platform with the EUP-C532 mini-convex transducer (frequency variable from 8.0-4.0 MHz). The first technique was holding the transducer parallel to the scapular plane and shifting it laterally. The second technique was to hold the transducer parallel to the scapular spine and perpendicular to the scapular plane. The third technique was to hold the transducer perpendicular to the scapular plane at its superior edge, then rotating the probe so as to point towards the base of the coracoid process. Author H.O. performed the scan, and author T.G. evaluated the pictures for SSN and STSL visibility. All methods were successful in visualizing the SSN and STSL. Our first technique had the problem of an acoustic shadow from the clavicle covering the lateral border of the SSN. Our second technique had the problem of not being able to show the shape and depth of the SSN, although its location was apparent. Our third technique was most successful in visualizing the entire SSN as well as the STSL. Holding a mini-convex transducer perpendicular to the scapular plane at its superior edge, then rotating the transducer to point towards the base of the coracoid process was a reproducible and practical method of visualizing the SSN and STSL.
