The early effects of tendon transfers and open capsulorrhaphy on glenohumeral deformity in brachial plexus birth palsy

Evaluation and management of brachial plexus birth palsy

Brachial plexus birth palsy can result in permanent lifelong deficits and unfortunately continues to be relatively common despite advancements in obstetric care. The diagnosis can be made shortly after birth by physical examination, noting a lack of movement in the affected upper extremity. Treatment begins with passive range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility and tactile stimulation to provide sensory reeducation. Primary surgery consists of microsurgical nerve surgery, whereas secondary surgery consists of alternative microsurgical procedures, tendon transfers, or osteotomies, all of which improve outcomes in the short term. However, the long-term outcomes of current treatment recommendations remain unknown.

Muscle transfers in children and adults improve external rotation in cases of obstetrical brachial plexus paralysis: a comparative study

PURPOSE

Latissimus dorsi and teres major transfers to the lateral side of the humerus with lengthening of the pectoralis major and subscapularis muscles for residual shoulder deformity were compared in children and skeletally mature patients.

METHODS

Fifteen patients (nine children, six skeletally mature patients aged three to 30 years, follow-up one to 22 years) were treated for internal shoulder contracture after birth plexus lesions: C5-C6 (seven patients); C5-7 (five patients); C5-C8-T1 (three patients, respectively). Range of movement, Mallet shoulder function score and radiographs were assessed.

RESULTS

Pre-operatively, shoulder function restrictions were comparable in all patients. Postoperatively, external rotation, abduction and Mallet function score improved significantly (p < 0.05) in all patients except one. There were no differences in improvement between children and skeletally mature patients (p = 0.24-1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

This technique improves external rotation and abduction of the shoulder for daily living activities in children and young, skeletally mature, patients.

Management of Shoulder Problems Following Obstetric Brachial Plexus Injury

Obstetric brachial plexus injuries are common, with an incidence of 0.42 per 1000 live births in the UK, and with 25% of patients being left with permanent disability without intervention. The shoulder is the most commonly affected joint and, as a result of the subsequent imbalance of musculature, the abnormal deforming forces cause dysplasia of the glenohumeral joint. In the growing child, this presents with changing pattern of pathology, which requires a multidisciplinary approach and a broad range of treatment modalities to optimize function.

Contribution of denervated muscle to contractures after neonatal brachial plexus injury: not just muscle fibrosis

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the contribution of muscle fibrosis to elbow flexion contractures in a murine model of neonatal brachial plexus injury (NBPI).

METHODS

Four weeks after NBPI, biceps and brachialis fibrosis were assessed histologically and compared with the timing of contracture development and the relative contribution of each muscle to contractures. Modulus of elasticity and hydroxyproline (collagen) content were measured and correlated with contracture severity. The effect of halofuginone antifibrotic therapy on fibrosis and contractures was investigated.

RESULTS

Elbow contractures preceded muscle fibrosis development. The brachialis was less fibrotic than the biceps, yet contributed more to contractures. Modulus and hydroxyproline content increased in both elbow flexors, but neither correlated with contracture severity. Halofuginone reduced biceps fibrosis but did not reduce contracture severity.

CONCLUSIONS

Contractures after NBPI cannot be explained solely by muscle fibrosis, arguing for investigation of alternate pathophysiologic targets for contracture prevention and treatment.

Meta-analysis of function after secondary shoulder surgery in neonatal brachial plexus palsy

BACKGROUND

Shoulder internal rotation contracture, active abduction, and external rotation deficits are common secondary problems in neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP). Soft tissue shoulder operations are often utilized for treatment. The objective was to conduct a meta-analysis and systematic review analyzing the clinical outcomes of NBPP treated with a secondary soft-tissue shoulder operation.

METHODS

A literature search identified studies of NBPP treated with a soft-tissue shoulder operation. A meta-analysis evaluated success rates for the aggregate Mallet score (≥ 4 point increase), global abduction score (≥ 1 point increase), and external rotation score (≥ 1 point increase) using the Mallet scale. Subgroup analysis was performed to assess these success rates when the author chose arthroscopic release technique versus open release technique with or without tendon transfer.

RESULTS

Data from 17 studies and 405 patients were pooled for meta-analysis. The success rate for the global abduction score was significantly higher for the open technique (67.4%) relative to the arthroscopic technique (27.7%, P<0.0001). The success rates for the global abduction score were significantly different among sexes (P=0.01). The success rate for external rotation was not significantly different between the open (71.4%) and arthroscopic techniques (74.1%, P=0.86). No other variable was found to have significant impact on the external rotation outcomes. The success rate for the aggregate Mallet score was 57.9% for the open technique, a nonsignificant increase relative to the arthroscopic technique (53.5%, P=0.63). Data suggest a correlation between increasing age at the time of surgery and a decreasing likelihood of success with regards to aggregate Mallet with an odds ratio of 0.98 (P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the secondary soft-tissue shoulder operation is an effective treatment for improving shoulder function in NBPP in appropriately selected patients. The open technique had significantly higher success rates in improving global abduction. There were no significant differences in the success rates for improvement in the external rotation or aggregate Mallet score among these surgical techniques.

Bipolar latissimus transfer for restoration of elbow flexion

BACKGROUND

Elbow flexion is often lacking in patients with brachial plexus palsy or anterior arm trauma. Restoring elbow flexion helps position the functioning hand for activity and nonfunctioning hand for stabilization. Bipolar latissimus transfer is one method of improving elbow flexion.

METHODS

A clinical case of bipolar latissimus transfer is presented. Additionally, results of a literature search are incorporated.

RESULTS

Bipolar latissimus can effectively improve elbow function, however residual deficits are to be expected. Additional transfers include unipolar latissimus, triceps, sternocleidomastoid, and pectoralis. Other methods include primary nerve transfer, Steindler flexorplasty, free muscle transfer, and elbow fusion.

CONCLUSION

Elbow flexion can be improved through various techniques. Each individual's clinical picture should be examined by an experienced clinician when choosing which technique to apply.

Extended long-term (5 years) outcomes of triangle tilt surgery in obstetric brachial plexus injury

Objective:

We evaluated the "extended" long-term (5 years) functional outcomes in obstetric brachial plexus injury (OBPI) patients, who underwent triangle tilt surgery between February 2005 and January 2008.

Methods:

Twenty two children (9 girls and 13 boys, mean age at surgery was 5.8 years; ranging 2.1-11.8 years old), who initially presented with medial rotation contracture and scapula deformity secondary to obstetric brachial plexus injury were included in this study. Functional movements were evaluated pre-operatively, and 5 years following triangle tilt surgery by modified Mallet scale.

Results:

Here, we report long-term (5 years) follow-up of triangle tilt surgery for 22 OBPI patients. Upper extremity functional movements such as, external rotation (2.5±0.6 to 4.1±0.8, p<0.0001), hand-to-spine (2.6±0.6 to 3.4±1.1, p<0.005), hand-to-neck (2.7±0.7 to 4.3±0.7, p<0.0001), hand-to-mouth (2.3±0.9 (92º±33) to 4.2±0.5 (21º±16), p<0.0001), and supination (2.6±1.1 (-8.2º ±51) to 4.1±0.7 (61±32)) were significantly improved (p<0.0001), and maintained over the extended long-term (5 years). Total modified Mallet functional score was also shown to improve from 14.1±2.7 to 20.3±2.5.

Conclusions:

The triangle tilt surgery improved all shoulder functions significantly, and maintained over the extended long-term (5 years) in these patients.

Combined glenoid anteversion osteotomy and tendon transfers for brachial plexus birth palsy: early outcomes

BACKGROUND

In the setting of severe glenohumeral dysplasia secondary to brachial plexus birth palsy, external rotation osteotomy of the humerus has traditionally been used to transpose the existing arc of shoulder motion to a more functional position. Here we introduce a surgical alternative, the aim of which is to gain stable reduction of the shoulder and restore active external rotation.

METHODS

All patients with brachial plexus birth palsy and Waters type-III, IV, or V glenohumeral dysplasia who underwent glenoid anteversion osteotomy combined with tendon transfers between 2006 and 2009 were identified. The Mallet score, Active Movement Scale, and active and passive ranges of motion were used to assess functional outcomes. Axial imaging was used to measure glenoid version, the degree of subluxation, and the Waters type.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients with a median age of 6.8 years (range, 2.1 to 16.2 years) were followed for a mean of twenty months (range, twelve to twenty-nine months). On average, passive external rotation with the shoulder in neutral increased by 43° (95% confidence interval [CI], 26° to 60°), passive internal rotation decreased by 22° (95% CI, 12° to 31°), active external rotation with the shoulder in neutral increased by 82° (95% CI, 66° to 98°), and active internal rotation decreased by 26° (95% CI, 14° to 38°). The aggregate Mallet score improved by a mean of 4.0 points (95% CI, 3.0 to 4.9). Glenoid retroversion improved by a mean of 26° (95% CI, 20° to 32°). The percentage of the humeral head anterior to the midscapular line improved by a mean of 35% (95% CI, 30% to 40%).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe glenohumeral dysplasia, glenoid realignment osteotomy in conjunction with soft-tissue rebalancing permits maintenance of joint reduction and functional improvement in the short term. In our view, external rotation osteotomy of the humerus is no longer the only surgical option for these cases.

Arthroscopic release of shoulder contracture secondary to obstetric brachial plexus palsy: retrospective study of 18 children with an average follow-up of 4.5 years

INTRODUCTION

Children affected by obstetric brachial plexus palsy have an internal rotation contracture of the shoulder and a deformed glenohumeral joint. In 2003, Pearl proposed doing an arthroscopic release of the shoulder to restore external rotation and allow the glenohumeral joint to remodel. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the active and passive shoulder external rotation range of motion and glenohumeral joint remodelling in children treated with arthroscopic-directed release.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2004 and 2010, 18 children with passive external rotation under 10° were treated with shoulder arthroscopy to release the anterior capsule and ligaments and perform a subscapularis tenotomy; no tendon transfer was performed. The average age was 4 years, 2 months. Nine children had an injury at C5C6, four had an injury at C5C6C7 and five had a complete injury. The average follow-up was 4.5 years. The clinical evaluation consisted of active and passive external rotation (ER) with elbow at the side, active internal rotation, and the modified Mallet score. One child who required an external rotation osteotomy of the proximal humerus was excluded from the clinical outcomes. An MRI was performed on both shoulders to assess glenoid retroversion, glenoid type, degree of posterior subluxation (measured by the percentage of humeral head anterior to the middle glenoid fossa) and humeral head hypoplasia.

RESULTS

At the latest follow-up, passive ER was 58° on average and active ER was 42°. Eleven children had regained more than 30° of active ER. The average internal rotation had decreased after the release. The MRI assessment showed that the glenohumeral joint had remodelled in 66% of cases; the glenoid type had improved, the glenoid retroversion had diminished and the humeral head was recentred. Humeral head hypoplasia was found in 28% of cases.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic release of the shoulder results in more external rotation and allows for glenohumeral joint remodelling. Tendon transfer is not always necessary to restore active external rotation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV - Retrospective study.

Biomechanical effectiveness of different types of tendon transfers to the shoulder for external rotation

BACKGROUND

Our purpose was to determine and compare the external rotation moment arm (ERMA) of the latissimus dorsi (LD), teres major (TM), and lower trapezius (LT) when transferred to selected locations on the proximal humerus. We hypothesize that the LT transfer has a higher ERMA compared with LD or TM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six fresh frozen cadaveric hemithoraces were used in a novel experimental design. The tendon and joint displacement method was used to calculate ERMA for 6 transfer pairs: LD to superolateral humeral head (SHH), LD to proximal-lateral humeral diaphysis (LHD), TM to SHH, TM to LHD, LT to infraspinatus insertion (ISI), and LT to teres minor insertion (TMI).

RESULTS

Tendon transfer pair had a significant effect on ERMA (P < .001), with a significant interaction effect between tendon transfer and position of the humerus (P < .0001). With the humerus at 0° abduction, the ERMAs of the LT-ISI (28.1 mm) or LT-TMI (22.3 mm) transfers were significantly higher than the ERMAs of LD-SHH (10.6 mm; P = .0001, P = .04) or LD-LHD (6.5 mm; P < .0001, P < .001). Also, ERMAs of LT-ISI and LT-TMI transfers were significantly higher than ERMA of TM-LHD (10.4 mm; P = .0001, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Shoulder external rotation tendon transfers differ in effectiveness and may be affected by arm position. LT potentially results in superior restoration of shoulder external rotation with the arm at the side compared with LD and should be considered as a potential tendon transfer to restore external rotation in selected patients.

Arthroscopic release for shoulder internal rotation contracture secondary to brachial plexus birth palsy: clinical and magnetic resonance imaging results on glenohumeral dysplasia

Internal rotation contracture of the shoulder in brachial plexus birth palsy frequently leads to shoulder dysplasia. Six children underwent anterior arthroscopic release sparing the subscapularis. Clinical examination and MRI were performed preoperatively and repeated at the 5-year follow-up. MRI was carried out for assessment of glenohumeral dysplasia. Passive external rotation was improved by 63.3° without any limitation of active internal rotation. Active antepulsion/abduction was improved by 90°. Remodeling of the glenoid and improved coverage of the humeral head were observed in all cases. Shoulder arthroscopic release sparing the subscapularis seems to be an efficient procedure to restore external rotation without affecting active internal rotation.

The intrarater and interrater reliability of glenoid version and glenohumeral subluxation measurements in neonatal brachial plexus palsy

BACKGROUND

Progressive and disabling glenohumeral dysplasia commonly occurs as a secondary deformity in children with neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP). A number of methods for quantifying glenohumeral dysplasia are currently in use; however, the most commonly reported quantitative measures have yet to be validated. The present study assesses the intrarater and interrater reliability of the glenoid version angle (GVA) and percent of the humeral head anterior to the scapular line (PHHA) measurements on axial magnetic resonance images.

METHODS

Axial magnetic resonance images of the shoulder girdle of 25 children with NBPP were selected to represent a wide range of glenohumeral dysplasia severity. An axial image was preselected for each measurement. Six examiners (3 orthopaedic surgeons, 2 musculoskeletal radiologists, and an epidemiologist) digitally measured the GVA and PHHA on each image twice, with each measurement separated by 2 to 14 days and the order of image presentation placed in a different arrangement for each measurement set. Intrarater and interrater reliability was assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Measurement errors for the GVA and PHHA measurements and the variances associated with the scapular and glenoid lines were calculated.

RESULTS

Using the Fleiss criteria, intrarater reliability was excellent, with ICCs averaging 0.909 (95% CI: 0.840, 0.940) for GVA and 0.891 (95% CI: 0.815, 0.921) for PHHA. Interrater reliability was excellent, with ICCs of 0.848 (95% CI: 0.788, 0.909) for GVA and 0.874 (95% CI: 0.815, 0.934) for PHHA. The GVA and PHHA measurement errors were ±6.4 degrees and ±7.2%, respectively. In a subset of 141 images measured, the between-image variance in the scapular line was greater than the glenoid line by a 1.61:1 ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

: The present study demonstrates excellent intrarater and interrater reliability of standard measurements of glenohumeral dysplasia in NBPP. The measurement errors for both measurements were comparable with other standard measures (e.g., Cobb angle). The scapular line exhibited a greater variance than the glenoid line, which identifies an opportunity for improvement in the GVA measurement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic study; level III.

Transfer of latissmus dorsi and teres major tendons without subscapularis release for the treatment of obstetrical brachial plexus palsy sequela

BACKGROUND

Patients with obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (OBPP) sequela exhibit adduction and internal rotation contractures. The muscular imbalance may result in secondary bony changes. Tendon transfers and muscular releases may improve shoulder function in these patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional and radiological results of pectoralis major tendon Z-plasty with transfer of latissimus dorsi and teres major tendons to rotator cuff tendons without release of subscapularis muscle in patients with mild sequela of OBPP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-six consecutive patients, who were treated with tendon transfer and met the eligibility criteria, were included in the study. No additional humeral osteotomy or subscapularis tenotomy was performed. Functional evaluation is made according to range of motion and Mallet scoring system. Preoperative radiologic evaluation was made according to the grading system of Waters.

RESULTS

A significant increase in shoulder function was found in all patients. Postoperative radiographs revealed glenohumeral congruity was maintained in all patients. Improvement in shoulder abduction and external rotation was higher in patients who were operated before the age of 7.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Pectoralis major tendon lengthening with transfer of latissimus dorsi and teres major tendons to rotator cuff is an effective and reproducible technique and can improve shoulder functions in patients with OBPP. Subscapularis release is not always required to overcome internal rotation contracture. Secondary glenohumeral changes might also be prevented with this approach.

Clinical outcome of shoulder muscle transfer for shoulder deformities in obstetric brachial plexus palsy: A study of 150 cases

Background:

Residual muscle weakness, cross-innervation (caused by misdirected regenerating axons), and muscular imbalance are the main causes of internal rotation contractures leading to limitation of shoulder joint movement, glenoid dysplasia, and deformity in obstetric brachial plexus palsy. Muscle transfers and release of antagonistic muscles improve range of motion as well as halt or reverse the deterioration in the bony architecture of the shoulder joint. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of shoulder muscle transfer for shoulder abnormalities in obstetric brachial plexus palsy.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and fifty patients of obstetric brachial plexus palsy with shoulder deformity underwent shoulder muscle transfer along with anterior shoulder release at our institutions from 1999 to 2007. Shoulder function was assessed both preoperatively and postoperatively using aggregate modified Mallet score and active and passive range of motion. The mean duration of follow-up was 4 years (2.5–8 years).

Results:

The mean preoperative abduction was 45° ± 7.12, mean passive external rotation was 10° ± 6.79, the mean active external rotation was 0°, and the mean aggregate modified Mallet score was 11.2 ± 1.41. At a mean follow-up of 4 years (2.5–8 years), the mean active abduction was 120° ± 18.01, the mean passive external rotation was 80° ± 10.26, while the mean active external rotation was 45° ± 3.84. The mean aggregate modified Mallet score was 19.2 ± 1.66.

Conclusions:

This procedure can thus be seen as a very effective tool to treat internal rotation and adduction contractures, achieve functional active abduction and external rotation, as well as possibly prevent glenohumeral dysplasia, though the long-term effects of this procedure may still have to be studied in detail clinico-radiologically to confirm this hypothesis.

Level of evidence:

Therapeutic level IV

Triangle tilt and steel osteotomy: similar approaches to common problems

BACKGROUND

Each year, thousands of children worldwide suffer obstetric brachial plexus nerve injuries resulting not only in primary nerve injury, but also in development of secondary muscle and bone deformities of the shoulder. The triangle tilt surgery has been developed and shown to effectively address these deformities. The triangle tilt procedure was initially designed by the lead author (RKN) to follow the concepts of joint normalization featured in the Steel pelvic osteotomy used to correct developmental dysplasia of the hip joint, and indeed ultimately bears a striking resemblance to the Steel osteotomy. Prior to performing these bony surgical procedures, soft tissue procedures are performed to release the muscle contractures of the shoulder and hip. The purpose of this article is to compare and analyze the similarities between the indications, surgical techniques, involved anatomy, and outcomes of these operative procedures.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted using PubMed to identify articles pertaining to triangle tilt surgery and the Steel pelvic osteotomy. Functional parameters and surgical strategies were compared. Pre- and post-operative CTs were analyzed to compare anatomical results of the procedures.

RESULTS

Similarities were found between both procedures in terms of indications, involved anatomy, surgical techniques, and outcomes. The triangle tilt surgery is indicated to correct the developmental dysplasia of the glenohumeral joint in obstetric brachial plexus injury patients. Steel pelvic osteotomy is performed to correct the subluxation and dislocation of the hip innominate bone in patients with congenital dysplasia, cerebral palsy myelodysplasia, and poliomyelitis. The involved anatomy of both procedures is similar in that both involve limb girdles and ball-and-socket joints, namely the shoulder and hip. Both procedures are also triple osteotomies, the triangle tilt involving the acromion, clavicle and scapula while the Steel osteotomy involves the iliac spine, ischial and pubic ramus of the innominate bone. Surgical techniques also bear likenesses in that both can theoretically be done percutaneously. Post-operative CT outcomes of both surgeries showed improved anatomical positioning of the ball-and-socket joint congruency, and therefore better functional outcomes.

DISCUSSION

The similarities between the triangle tilt surgery and Steel pelvic osteotomy could potentially be useful as a model system in developing other procedures that involve the shoulder and hip. Future clinical applications include the development and implementation of new surgical procedures based on comparisons and adaptations from the hip to the shoulder and vice versa.

Impaired growth of denervated muscle contributes to contracture formation following neonatal brachial plexus injury

BACKGROUND

The etiology of shoulder and elbow contractures following neonatal brachial plexus injury is incompletely understood. With use of a mouse model, the current study tests the novel hypothesis that reduced growth of denervated muscle contributes to contractures following neonatal brachial plexus injury.

METHODS

Unilateral brachial plexus injuries were created in neonatal mice by supraclavicular C5-C6 nerve root excision. Shoulder and elbow range of motion was measured four weeks after injury. Fibrosis, cross-sectional area, and functional length of the biceps, brachialis, and subscapularis muscles were measured over four weeks following injury. Muscle satellite cells were cultured from denervated and control biceps muscles to assess myogenic capability. In a comparison group, shoulder motion and subscapularis length were assessed following surgical excision of external rotator muscles.

RESULTS

Shoulder internal rotation and elbow flexion contractures developed on the involved side within four weeks following brachial plexus injury. Excision of the biceps and brachialis muscles relieved the elbow flexion contractures. The biceps muscles were histologically fibrotic, whereas fatty infiltration predominated in the brachialis and rotator cuff muscles. The biceps and brachialis muscles displayed reduced cross-sectional and longitudinal growth compared with the contralateral muscles. The upper subscapularis muscle similarly displayed reduced longitudinal growth, with the subscapularis shortening correlating with internal rotation contracture. However, excision of the external rotators without brachial plexus injury caused no contractures or subscapularis shortening. Myogenically capable satellite cells were present in denervated biceps muscles despite impaired muscle growth in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Injury of the upper trunk of the brachial plexus leads to impaired growth of the biceps and brachialis muscles, which are responsible for elbow flexion contractures, and impaired growth of the subscapularis muscle, which correlates with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder. Shoulder muscle imbalance alone causes neither subscapularis shortening nor internal rotation contracture. Impaired muscle growth cannot be explained solely by absence of functioning satellite cells.

Range of motion and strength after surgery for brachial plexus birth palsy

BACKGROUND

There is little information about the range of motion (ROM) and strength of the affected upper limbs of patients with permanent brachial plexus birth palsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

107 patients who had brachial plexus surgery in Finland between 1971 and 1998 were investigated in this population-based, cross-sectional, 12-year follow-up study. During the follow-up, 59 patients underwent secondary procedures. ROM and isometric strength of the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and thumbs were measured. Ratios for ROM and strength between the affected and unaffected sides were calculated.

RESULTS

61 patients (57%) had no active shoulder external rotation (median 0° (-75-90)). Median active abduction was 90° (1-170). Shoulder external rotation strength of the affected side was diminished (median ratio 28% (0-83)). Active elbow extension deficiency was recorded in 82 patients (median 25° (5-80)). Elbow flexion strength of the affected side was uniformly impaired (median ratio 43% (0-79)). Median active extension of the wrist was 55° (-70-90). The median ratio of grip strength for the affected side vs. the unaffected side was 68% (0-121). Patients with total injury had poorer ROM and strength than those with C5-6 injury. Incongruity of the radiohumeral joint and avulsion were associated with poor strength values.

INTERPRETATION

ROM and strength of affected upper limbs of patients with surgically treated brachial plexus birth palsy were reduced. Patients with avulsion injuries and/or consequent joint deformities fared worst.

Microcomputed tomography characterization of shoulder osseous deformity after brachial plexus birth palsy: a rat model study

BACKGROUND

Shoulder deformities are common secondary sequelae associated with brachial plexus birth palsy. The aim of the present study was to characterize three-dimensional glenohumeral deformity associated with brachial plexus birth palsy with use of microcomputed tomography scanning in a recently developed animal model.

METHODS

Brachial plexus birth palsy was produced by a right-sided neurotomy of the C5 and C6 nerve roots in seven five-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats. Microcomputed tomography scanning was performed when the rats were four months of age. Glenoid size, version, and inclination; humeral head size; and acromion-glenoid distance were measured. Normal shoulders of age-matched rats (n = 9) served as controls. Statistical analysis was performed with use of the unpaired two-tailed Student t test.

RESULTS

There were significant increases in glenoid retroversion (-7.6° ± 4.9° compared with 3.6° ± 2.1°; p = 0.038) and glenoid inclination (38.7° ± 7.3° compared with 11.2° ± 1.9°; p = 0.015) in the shoulders with simulated brachial plexus birth palsy in comparison with the normal, control shoulders. The glenohumeral joints were more medialized in the joints with simulated brachial plexus birth palsy as reflected by the acromion-glenoid distance measurement; however, the difference was not significant (3.20 ± 0.51 compared with 2.40 ± 0.18 mm; p = 0.12). Although the mean humeral head height and width measurements, on the average, were smaller in the brachial plexus birth palsy shoulders as compared with the normal, control shoulders, only the measurement of humeral head height was significantly different between the two groups (4.25 ± 2.02 compared with 4.97 ± 0.11 mm [p = 0.008] and 3.56 ± 0.27 compared with 4.19 ± 0.17 mm [p = 0.056], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In this animal model, rats with simulated brachial plexus birth palsy developed gross architectural joint distortion characterized by increased glenoid retroversion and inclination. In addition, humeral heads tended to be smaller four months after simulated brachial plexus birth palsy.

Shoulder tendon transfer options for adult patients with brachial plexus injury

Enhancement of upper-extremity function, specifically shoulder function, after brachial plexus injury requires a good understanding of nerve repair and transfer, with their expected outcome, as well as shoulder anatomy and biomechanics enabling the treating surgeon to use available functioning muscles around the shoulder for transfer, to improve shoulder function. Surgical treatment should address painful shoulder subluxation in addition to improvement of function. The literature focuses on improving shoulder abduction, but improving shoulder external rotation should take priority because this function, even if isolated, will allow patients to position their hand in front of their body. With a functional elbow and hand, patients will be able to do most activities of daily living. The lower trapezius has been shown to be a good transfer to restore external rotation of the shoulder. Other parts of the trapezius, levator scapulae, rhomboids, and, when available, the latissimus dorsi, pectoralis major, teres major, biceps, triceps, and serratus anterior muscles can all be used to replace the rotator cuff and deltoid muscle function. To optimize the results, a close working relationship is required between surgeons reconstructing brachial plexus injury and shoulder specialists.

Glenohumeral dysplasia changes after tendon transfer surgery in children with birth brachial plexus injuries

BACKGROUND

This study hypothesizes that children with glenohumeral dysplasia secondary to birth brachial plexopathy treated with tendon transfer surgery at a younger age will show greater radiographic improvement than those treated at an older age.

METHODS

Twenty-six children treated with latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon transfer had preoperative and 1 year postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans at an average follow-up of 17 months (10 to 46 mo). Average age at surgery was 44 months (10 to 134 mo). CT scans were measured for glenoid version and percent humeral head anterior to the midscapular line (PHHA). Shoulders were classified as dislocated (PHHA 0%), subluxed (PHHA 1% to 35%), or normal positioning (>35%). Two age groups were compared: 24 months or less at the time of surgery (n=11); and greater than 2 years (n=15). Concomitant surgical techniques were also evaluated.

RESULTS

For the 11 children treated at 24 months of age or less, PHHA averaged 13% preoperatively (range: 0% to 54%) and postoperatively 42% (range: 25% to 51%); glenoid version averaged -25 degrees preoperatively (range: -36 to -11 degrees) and postoperatively -14 degrees (range: -31 to -2 degrees); and preoperatively 5 shoulders were dislocated, 5 subluxed, and 1 normal; whereas postoperatively 0 shoulders were dislocated, 2 subluxed, and 9 normally positioned. For the 15 children treated at greater than 2 years of age, PHHA averaged 30% preoperatively (range: 0% to 53%) and postoperatively 33% (range: 0% to 57%); glenoid version averaged -17 degrees preoperatively (range: -27 to -4 degrees) and postoperatively -16 degrees (range: -31 to -2 degrees); and preoperatively 2 shoulders were dislocated, 6 subluxed, and 7 normal; whereas postoperatively 2 shoulders were dislocated, 5 subluxed, and 8 normally positioned.

CONCLUSIONS

Eleven children treated at 24 months of age or less had significantly greater improvement in the CT scan radiographic measurements of glenohumeral dysplasia, than the 15 children treated at greater than 2 years of age. The effect of age had greater correlation with improvement than open reduction. For children undergoing tendon transfer for lack of active external rotation due to brachial plexus birth injury, improvement in glenohumeral dysplasia can be achieved if the surgery is performed before 2 years of age.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case controlled series.

Long-term outcomes of triangle tilt surgery for obstetric brachial plexus injury

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term shoulder functional outcomes from a triangle tilt procedure on obstetric patients, who initially presented with medial rotation contracture and scapular deformity secondary to obstetric brachial plexus injury.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied long-term outcomes both functionally and anatomically in 61 patients (age ranging from 2 to 12 years). Functional movements were evaluated and scored using a modified Mallet scale at different time intervals: preoperatively, 1 year and 2 year following triangle tilt surgery. Shoulder anatomy was examined on radiologic images to evaluate the severity of shoulder deformities preoperatively and anatomical improvement after the surgery.

RESULTS

All shoulder functional movements were significantly improved at 1 and 2 year follow-ups. Functional improvements were maintained in shoulder abduction, external rotation and hand-to-mouth movements beyond the first year, and continued in hand-to-neck and hand-to-spine movements past 2 years. Remarkable glenohumeral remodeling or reservation of glenoid congruence was observed in all patients over a mean time of 27 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The triangle tilt procedure, which addresses scapular and glenohumeral joint abnormalities characteristic of Erb's palsy, improves shoulder functional movements and anatomical structure in patients over the long-term.

Ossification of the proximal humerus in children with residual brachial plexus birth palsy: a magnetic resonance imaging study

BACKGROUND

Children with residual brachial plexus birth palsy may develop deformities of the humeral head and the glenoid. Surgical treatment has been described to maximize function and to lessen deformity by means of glenohumeral remodeling. The timing and technique of surgical intervention have not been resolved. The timing of the appearance on magnetic resonance imaging of the ossific nuclei in patients with brachial plexus birth palsy has not been described. We examined the timing of ossification about the proximal humerus. Our hypothesis was that the timing of ossification of the proximal humerus differs between the side involved in brachial plexus palsy and the uninvolved side.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed of 117 children with residual brachial plexus birth palsy (aged 5 mo to 10 y) who had magnetic resonance imaging scans of the bilateral shoulders performed at our institution between 2000 and 2007. All axial slices were reviewed by a single observer for evidence of ossification of the humeral head epiphysis, the greater tuberosity, and the lesser tuberosity, as well as for evidence that the 3 were coalesced. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the involved and uninvolved sides.

RESULTS

The appearance of the greater tuberosity ossific nucleus on the involved side was significantly delayed. There was a trend towards delay in the appearance of the lesser tuberosity ossific nucleus and the coalescence of the 3 ossific nuclei on the involved side. The duration during which ossification of the involved brachial plexus side occurred was generally shorter compared with the uninvolved side.

CONCLUSION

There is delay in the ossification of the involved side in brachial plexus birth palsy, and a shorter duration of ossification.

The early effects of tendon transfers and open capsulorrhaphy on glenohumeral deformity in brachial plexus birth palsy. Surgical technique

BACKGROUND

Persistent muscle imbalance and soft-tissue contractures can lead to progressive glenohumeral joint dysplasia in patients with brachial plexus birth palsy. The objective of the present investigation was to determine the effects of tendon transfers and open glenohumeral reduction on shoulder function and dysplasia in patients with preexisting joint deformity secondary to brachial plexus birth palsy.

METHODS

Twenty-three patients with preexisting glenohumeral deformity underwent latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon transfers to the rotator cuff with concomitant musculotendinous lengthening of the pectoralis major and/or subscapularis and open glenohumeral joint reduction for the treatment of internal rotation contracture and external rotation weakness. Shoulder function was assessed with use of the modified Mallet classification system and the Active Movement Scale. Glenoid version and humeral head subluxation were quantified radiographically, and glenohumeral deformity was appropriately graded. The mean duration of clinical and radiographic follow-up was thirty-one and twenty-five months, respectively.

RESULTS

Clinically, all patients demonstrated improved global shoulder function, with the mean aggregate Mallet score improving from 10 points preoperatively to 18 points postoperatively (p < 0.01). The mean modified Mallet score for external rotation improved from 2 to 4 (p < 0.01). Similarly, the mean Active Movement Scale score for external rotation improved from 3 to 6 (p < 0.01). The mean Mallet hand-to-spine score improved from 1 to 2 (p < 0.01). The mean Active Movement Scale score for internal rotation remained constant at 6. Radiographically, the mean glenoid version improved from -39 degrees preoperatively to -18 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.01). The mean percentage of the humeral head anterior to the middle of the glenoid similarly improved from 13% to 38% (p < 0.01). The mean glenohumeral deformity score improved from 3 to 2 (p < 0.01). Nineteen (83%) of the twenty-three patients demonstrated glenohumeral remodeling; one patient had progressive worsening of glenohumeral deformity.

CONCLUSIONS

Tendon transfers to the rotator cuff, combined with musculotendinous lengthenings and open reduction of the glenohumeral joint, improve global shoulder function and lead to glenohumeral joint remodeling in the majority of selected patients with mild-to-moderate preexisting glenohumeral dysplasia secondary to brachial plexus birth palsy. Future study of the long-term outcomes of these procedures will help to clarify the ultimate effect on glenohumeral joint function.

Shoulder problems in children with brachial plexus birth palsy: evaluation and management

Traction injury to the brachial plexus sustained during the birth process that results in impaired neuromuscular function of the upper extremity continues to occur despite advances in modern obstetric care. The most common pattern of injury usually results in motor weakness of shoulder external rotation, leading to internal rotation contractures and subsequent deformity of the skeletally immature glenohumeral joint. Understanding of these deformities and effective surgical intervention have advanced greatly over the past decade. Restoration of balance between internal and external rotation forces around the shoulder has great potential for remodeling of the glenohumeral joint in the young child. Arthroscopic-directed release of the contracture, with select use of latissimus dorsi transfer to provide external rotation power, has proved to be effective for many children with these contractures.