Dr Alashkham and his colleagues have reported that the definition of the bare spot and tubercle of Assaki is controversial, with studies reporting different incidences, locations, and clinical significance. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of the bare spot, to determine the length and width of the bare spot, and to assess the relationship between the bare spot and tubercle of Assaki. The bare spot was observed in 80.7% of shoulders, being more common in men than in women, with an overall mean length and width of 7.2 mm. and 6.2 mm. It was significatly longer and wider in men. The bare spot exists within the glenoid fossa and differs from the tubercle of Assaki. It is a characteristic round to oval leison in the central or eccentric cartilage. It should not be misdiagnosed as a pathologic lesion. The paper has been published in Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery - open access (JSESOA) and is free to download. Related links Journal article: Bare spot and tubercle of Assaki Publication date 08 Dec, 2017
