Muscle transfer for abduction paralysis of the shoulder in poliomyelitis.

Muscle transplantation in deltoid paralysis in poliomyelitis has been practiced only sporadically and considered ineffective. Trapezius transfer to humeral shaft with fascia lata extension was performed to restore abduction power of the shoulder in 24 patients between 4--10 years of age. It is recommended that the muscle re-education program and bracing be continued for a sufficiently long time so that the muscle may develop enough strength to function. If a forward subluxation of the joint develops and persists, a Nicola procedure is effective. The functional results obtained in a follow-up of 1--3 years has been encouraging in these children, especially when the accessory muscles were not paralyzed.