Scapulothoracic arthrodesis for patients who have fascioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Letournel, E.; Fardeau, M.; Lytle, J.O.; Serrault, M.; Gosselin, R.A.
Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume 72(1): 78-84
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-9355 PMID: 2295676 Document Number: 360632
In nine patients who fascioscapulohumeral musclular dystrophy, thoracoscapular artherodesis was done for the treatment of symptomatic winging of the scapula. The objective was to improve the use of the upper extremity in the performance of activities of daily living. Seven patients had a bilateral procedure. The activity range of motion of the shoulder improved in all patients, with flexion increasing an average of 33 degrees and abduction, 25 degrees. Complications includes pneumothorax, pleural effusion, atelectasis, fracture of the scapula, and pseudarthrosis. The length of follow-up averaged sixty-nine months, and the results did not deteriorate with time.