Prevalence of the Bennett Lesion of the Shoulder in Major League Pitchers

Background: The Bennett lesion is a mineralization of the posterior inferior glenoid noted in overhead throwing athletes. Although previous studies have debated appropriate treatment of the lesion, no studies have indicated the lesion prevalence in throwing athletes.

Hypothesis: The Bennett lesion is more common than previously believed and may represent an asymptomatic finding.

Study Design: Uncontrolled retrospective review.

Methods: Fifty-five asymptomatic major league pitchers underwent routine preseason radiographic screening. Radiographs were reviewed for the presence of a Bennett’s lesion. Player demographics, pitching, and baseball records were reviewed to obtain the patient’s dominant arm, age, years and innings pitched, and time on the disabled list or surgery.

Results: Twelve pitchers (22%) were noted to have a radiographic Bennett lesion. No statistically significant difference was noted in age, years pitched, or innings pitched between pitchers with and without a Bennett lesion. No player who demonstrated a Bennett lesion required surgical treatment for shoulder pain during his time with the club. Two players required time on the disabled list, but neither player had complaints of posterior shoulder pain.

Conclusions: This lesion is a relatively common finding in major league pitchers. Concomitant pathology should be suspected when evaluating throwers with posterior shoulder pain and this lesion.