Complex Shoulder Girdle Stabilization Using Allograft Capsular Reconstruction and Pectoralis Major Transfer: A Case...

A 21-year-old woman with a history of multiple failed surgical and conservative management for recurrent involuntary shoulder instability presented with 1-year history of shoulder pain. Physical examination demonstrated intractable static anterior glenohumeral instability, deficient capsular tissue, with reducible scapular winging secondary to long thoracic nerve palsy. Allograft capsular reconstruction and open split pectoralis major tendon transfer were performed to salvage shoulder motion and stabilize her shoulder girdle.

This report presents a novel repair option for intractable shoulder instability and scapular winging. Surgeons should recognize potential causes of shoulder instability and familiarize themselves with multiple stabilization techniques as potential salvage options before glenohumeral fusion.