AN INTRODUCTION OF A NEW TECHNIQUE IN THE TREATMENT OF SCAPULAR WINGING IN PATIENTS WITH FACIOSCAPULOHUMERAL DYSTROPHY

In the present study a new technique used in the treatment of scapulothoracic arthrodesis has been described. This technique was used in 6 patients(two patients bilaterally) for winging of scapula due to facioscapulohumeral dystrophy from 1988 to 1999. In this technique combination of plate and wire was used. The reasons for doing this surgery were: scapular winging, pain in shoulder, limitation in active shoulder motion, and impaired daily living activities. The objectives were to improve motion, strength and performance of activities of daily living as well as pain relief. After surgery, active motion improved in all patients for flexion from 64 to 104 degrees and for abduction from 67.5 to 112.5. The only complication was a hemothorax in a patient which was treated easily. The average length of follow-up was 32.5 months (from 14 to 55 months) and results did not change with the passage of time.