[Scapulae alatae--angels' wings. A study of 64 patients treated with braces and physical therapy at the Viberg's hospital].

INTRODUCTION

Scapula winging is characterized by a paresis/paralysis of either m. serratus anterior innervated by n. thoracis longus or m. trapezius innervated by n. accesorius. This investigation reveals the results after bracing and muscle training in patients suffering from scapula winging.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, consecutive series consisting of 64 patients, 43 males and 21 females with a mean age of 37.8 years (15-75 years), were treated with bracing and muscle training in 1998-2001. Prior to the treatment of bracing all patients suffered from shoulder pain, shoulder fatigue and limited range of motion as well as cosmetic complaints, 28 patients had shoulder pain.

RESULTS

At the time of the investigation all 64 patients had stopped using the brace after an average of 11 months (3-29 months). A total of 61 patients had returned to their previous work and sports activities. By the time of the one year follow-up control 18 (50%) patients had gained normal shoulder functions and had no complaints and no visible scapula winging. Ten (32%) had minor disability and two (6%) had major disability. Two patients had relapse of their scapula winging. (Both patients had formerly had normal ENG/EMG).

DISCUSSION

We find that the combination of bracing and muscle training is successful in treating scapula winging. Electroneurography (ENG)/electromyography (EMG) was routinely performed but did not show any prognostic value for the treatment in our investigation.