Scapulothoracic arthrodesis for patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy

Ten scapulothoracic arthrodesis procedures were performed in six patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy in order to improve considerably restricted activities of daily living. Four of these procedures were bilateral. The duration of follow-up ranged from 28 to 120 months. All patients reported improved function in activities of daily living. Active shoulder abduction was improved by an average of 44 degrees, and active flexion increased by 56 degrees. There was no deterioration in improved upper limb function with time. Complications included pneumothorax, atelectasis, pleural effusion and re-exploration for a segment of retained drain.