Scapulothoracic arthrodesis in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy

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Review of seventeen procedures with three to twenty-one-year follow-up. Bunch-W-H. Siegel-I-M. Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama 35209. J-Bone-Joint-Surg-Am. 1993 Mar. 75(3). P 372-6. The scapula was fixed to the ribs in twelve patients who had facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, in order to provide stability for activities involving the upper limbs. The duration of follow-up ranged from three to twenty-one years. Abduction, in 30 degrees of flexion, improved an average of 60 degrees, and gains in strength for carrying and lifting were reported by the patients. Complications included a brachial plexus palsy, which resolved, and a frozen shoulder. All of the patients but one were pleased with the result. Author-abstract.