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Hyphenated history: the Sever-L'Episcopo procedure.
Charles T Mehlman1, Matthew E Koepplinger
1Division of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA. charles.mehlman@cchmc.org
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|June 23, 2007
Summary
The Sever-L'Episcopo procedure, named after orthopaedic surgeons Sever and L'Episcopo, has improved shoulder function in children with neonatal brachial plexus palsy for nearly 90 years.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopaedics
- Medical History
Background:
- This article details the contributions of orthopaedic surgeons James W. Sever and Joseph B. L'Episcopo.
- They focused on improving care for infants with neonatal brachial plexus palsy.
- Their work addressed shoulder function deficits caused by paralytic contracture.
Discussion:
- The Sever-L'Episcopo procedure emerged from the collaborative efforts of Sever and L'Episcopo.
- It specifically targets the enhancement of shoulder function in affected children.
- The procedure represents a significant historical contribution to pediatric orthopaedic surgery.
Key Insights:
- The procedure is named after its developers, Sever and L'Episcopo.
- It has been a cornerstone in treating neonatal brachial plexus palsy for decades.
- The techniques aim to mitigate the long-term effects of paralytic contracture on shoulder function.
Outlook:
- The enduring legacy of the Sever-L'Episcopo procedure highlights its clinical importance.
- Continued refinement of the procedure may offer further benefits for patients.
- Understanding its historical context is crucial for contemporary pediatric orthopaedic practice.
