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Scapulothoracic arthrodesis in facioscapulohumeral dystrophy with multifilament cable
Mehmet Demirhan1, Ozgur Uysal, Ata Can Atalar
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|April 1, 2009
Summary
Scapulothoracic arthrodesis significantly improved shoulder function in facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) patients. This surgical technique using multifilament cables offers a viable option for enhancing shoulder mobility and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) commonly leads to significant shoulder dysfunction.
- Impaired shoulder function negatively impacts patients' quality of life and daily activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the functional outcomes of scapulothoracic arthrodesis in patients diagnosed with FSHD.
- To assess the efficacy of using multifilament cables for scapulothoracic fusion in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A case series involving 13 patients (18 shoulders) with FSHD who underwent scapulothoracic arthrodesis using multifilament cables.
- Outcome measures included active shoulder range of motion (forward flexion and abduction), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, respiratory function, and a novel shoulder function score.
- Patients were followed for a minimum of 24 months.
Main Results:
- Solid fusion was achieved in all operated shoulders.
- Significant improvements were observed in active shoulder abduction (47.2° to 102.2°) and forward flexion (55.6° to 126.1°).
- The DASH score decreased substantially (33.6 to 11.6), and the shoulder function score improved (15.9 to 22.2).
Conclusions:
- Scapulothoracic arthrodesis using multifilament cables is an effective procedure for improving shoulder function in patients with FSHD.
- The technique provides satisfactory functional gains and is associated with an acceptable complication rate.