Publication : 10(1):229. doi: 10.1038/s41541-025-01279-7
Co-authors: Kutaish H, Bouché PA, Rivera PM, Cornevin A, Borgonovo A, Mombelli S, Brandariz R, De Pree B, Cunningham AL, Cunningham G.
Abstract:
Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) can occur as subacromial bursitis, frozen shoulder, or tendinopathy following deltoid intramuscular immunization. This study evaluated needle overpenetration into the subacromial space using a standard needle in 177 patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery from 2022 to 2024, with a median age of 55. Findings showed a mean needle length of 25.36 mm was required for subacromial penetration, occurring in 51.9% of cases. Significant associations with needle overpenetration included Body Mass Index (BMI), weight, deltoid thickness, fat thickness, and combined fat and deltoid thickness, all statistically significant (p < 0.05). These results suggest the standard needle length may be too long for most adults, increasing complication risks. To prevent subacromial injections, the study recommends vaccination guidelines to adopt a shorter 15 mm needle for most adults, ensuring proper vaccine delivery into the deltoid muscle and minimizing SIRVA risk.