Monopolar teres major muscle transposition to improve shoulder abduction and flexion in children with sequelae of obstetric brachial plexus palsy

Claudia Ocampo-Pavez,Jörg Bahm

doi:10.1186/1749-7221-4-20

Claudia Ocampo-Pavez, Jörg Bahm

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-7221-4-20

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Abstract

We present a new surgical technique for a pedicled teres major muscle transfer to improve shoulder abduction and flexion in children with sequelae of obstetric brachial plexus palsy.In addition, we provide the clinical outcome in the first 17 operated children.

Highlights

Muscle weakness is a frequent sequela after obstetric brachial plexus palsy and might be improved by muscle transpositions, especially at the shoulder level [1]
We propose a single transfer of the tmm in selected conditions in children suffering obpp sequelae: 1. when shoulder flexion and/or abduction are weak against gravity
The tmm might be considered as a valuable functional muscle transfer to enhance shoulder abduction and elevation in selected children with obpp sequelae, under 10 years of age with reasonable body weight

Summary

Introduction

Muscle weakness is a frequent sequela after obstetric brachial plexus palsy (obpp) and might be improved by muscle transpositions, especially at the shoulder level [1]. The teres major muscle (tmm) is included in the technique described by Hoffer [2] to enhance active lateral rotation of the shoulder, where this muscle should address the function of the infraspinatus muscle.

Results

Conclusion