Scapulothoracic arthrodesis for patients who have fascioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.

In nine patients who had fascioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, thoracoscapular arthrodesis was done for the treatment of symptomatic winging of the scapula. The objective was to improve the use of the upper extremity in the performance of activities of daily living. Seven patients had a bilateral procedure. The active range of motion of the shoulder improved in all patients, with flexion increasing an average of 33 degrees and abduction, 25 degrees. Complications included pneumothorax, pleural effusion, atelectasis, fracture of the scapula, and pseudarthrosis. The length of follow-up averaged sixty-nine months, and the results did not deteriorate with time.