Polyester tape scapulopexy for chronic upper extremity brachial plexus injury.

PURPOSE: To report the results of scapular stabilization for winging in patients with chronic upper brachial plexus injury.

METHODS

Eight patients, mean age 36 years, who had a winged scapula after successful restoration of major shoulder function by nerve transfer underwent scapular stabilization to the ribcage using polyester tape. The follow-up period ranged from 24 to 40 months (mean, 38 mo). Data collection included radiographic analysis, active range of motion measurement, University of California Los Angeles shoulder score, and visual analog scale pain score.

RESULTS

All patients had clinical improvement with resolution of scapular winging. Five patients had no winging and 3 had mild winging after the surgery. Mean active forward flexion increased from 101° preoperatively to 127° postoperatively. Mean active shoulder abduction increased from 91° preoperatively to 121° postoperatively. Mean University of California Los Angeles shoulder score improved from 17 to 27 and mean visual analog scale pain score improved from 6.1 to 0.7. In addition, mean lateral deviated angle increased from 4° from neutral preoperatively to 9° at the last follow-up. All patients reported satisfaction with postoperative appearance.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes of polyester tape scapulopexy in the short to intermediate term were favorable in terms of improved appearance, upper extremity function, and pain reduction in patients with winged scapula resulting from chronic upper brachial plexus injury, and with successful restoration of shoulder motion by previous nerve transfers.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.