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Thoracoscapular fusion for facioscapulohumeral dystrophy
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|November 1, 1978
Summary
Thoracoscapular fusion surgery effectively stabilizes the scapula and improves function and appearance in patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. Benefits persist long-term, even as the condition progresses.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Musculoskeletal Research
Background:
- Symptomatic scapular winging is often caused by thoracoscapular muscle paresis.
- This condition predominantly affects individuals with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD).
- Preserved deltoid function is a key characteristic in these patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of thoracoscapular fusion for symptomatic scapular winging.
- To assess functional and cosmetic outcomes following the procedure.
- To determine the long-term durability of surgical benefits in FSHD patients.
Main Methods:
- Performed eleven thoracoscapular fusion operations on six patients.
- Focused on patients with scapular winging due to muscle paresis and intact deltoid function.
- Monitored outcomes over a maximum follow-up period of twenty-three years.
Main Results:
- The surgery successfully achieved scapular stability in all patients.
- Significant improvements in both shoulder function and cosmetic appearance were observed.
- The positive outcomes remained consistent throughout the extended follow-up period.
Conclusions:
- Thoracoscapular fusion is a highly effective treatment for scapular winging in FSHD.
- The procedure offers substantial functional and cosmetic benefits.
- Surgical success is durable and not compromised by disease progression over decades.