Ducloyer P, Nizard R, Sedel L, Witvoët J
Service d'Orthopédie et de Traumatologie hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris.
Rev Chir Orthop Reparatrice Appar Mot. 1991;77(6):396-405.
Twenty-three shoulder arthrodeses after brachial plexus injuries have been performed. Average time between injury and arthrodesis was 3.4 years. 18 patients had palliative procedures or direct approach of the brachial plexus to improve shoulder and hand function. Average follow-up was 5 years and 11 months. An analysis based on pain, function, and fusion occurrence gave 15 good, 2 fair and 4 poor results. The authors conclude that the shoulder arthrodesis is indicated when elbow and hand functions are sufficient and deafferentation pain has not occurred.
