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Shoulder arthrodesis in pediatric patients
D L Pruitt1, R E Hulsey, B Fink
1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Shoulder arthrodesis in pediatric patients achieved stability regardless of fusion position. However, excessive abduction or forward flexion should be avoided to prevent cosmetic issues.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Pediatric orthopedics
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Shoulder arthrodesis is a surgical procedure to fuse the shoulder joint.
- It is often performed in pediatric patients with conditions causing significant shoulder dysfunction.
- Common indications include brachial plexus palsy and post-poliomyelitis paralysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of shoulder arthrodesis in a pediatric population.
- To determine the optimal position of fusion for stability and cosmesis.
- To identify factors influencing functional and aesthetic results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 17 pediatric patients who underwent shoulder arthrodesis.
- Analysis of diagnoses, surgical techniques, and postoperative outcomes.
- Assessment of achieved stability and cosmetic appearance.
Main Results:
- Shoulder arthrodesis provided stability in pediatric patients across various diagnoses.
- The specific position of fusion was less critical than achieving overall joint stability.
- Excessive abduction or forward flexion of the fused shoulder led to undesirable cosmetic outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Shoulder arthrodesis is an effective procedure for achieving stability in pediatric patients with severe shoulder paralysis.
- Surgical planning should prioritize joint stability over a precise fusion angle.
- Careful positioning is necessary to avoid cosmetic deformities, particularly excessive abduction or forward flexion.