Shoulder external rotation tendon transfers for brachial plexus birth palsy

Children with brachial plexus birth palsy may have permanent loss of shoulder external rotation strength. This impairment may result to a difficulty in reaching the face and head with the affected hand for grooming activities, and in reaching overhead for participation in sports or work-related tasks. In addition, the contracture that results from unopposed internal rotation may further restrict range of motion and cause glenohumeral joint deformity and subluxation.A combination of muscle release and transfers reliably improves the child's ability to position the hand, and may halt the development of joint deformity. Postoperative rehabilitation is necessary to maximize the strength and range of motion obtained from this operation.