Active Shoulder External Rotation Research Articles

Humeral Component Version Has No Effect on Outcomes Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Controversy exists regarding the ideal humeral component version to optimize humeral rotation and patient outcomes in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). Patients undergoing primary rTSA for rotator cuff tear arthropathy, a massive rotator cuff tear, or primary osteoarthritis with a rotator cuff tear were randomized to placement of the humeral component in neutral version or 30° of retroversion. Shoulder active range of motion and strength and visual analog scale (VAS) pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global 10 (PROMIS-10) scores were collected up to 2 years postoperatively. The goal of the study was to determine whether humeral external rotation and internal rotation are affected by humeral component version following rTSA at 2 years postoperatively. Sixty-six patients were included in the analysis. The median follow-up was 26 months for the neutral and 27 months for the 30° retroversion group. No differences between the groups were observed with respect to the primary diagnosis, sex, age, body mass index, or American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class. The 2 groups did not differ significantly in terms of improvement at 2 years in active shoulder abduction (p = 0.969), forward elevation (p = 1.000), internal rotation measured as the highest spinal level reached (p = 1.000), internal rotation with the arm abducted 90° (p = 0.451), external rotation (p = 0.362), or muscle strength in forward elevation (p = 1.000), abduction (p = 1.000), external rotation (p = 0.617), or internal rotation (p = 1.000). The 2 groups did not differ significantly in terms of improvement in postoperative ASES (p = 1.000), PROMIS-10 physical (p = 1.000), or VAS pain scores (p = 0.718) at the time of final follow-up. In the neutral version group, 1 patient underwent revision for instability and 1 for stiffness. One acromial stress fracture occurred in the 30° humeral retroversion group. Scapular notching was observed in 7 (21.2%) of the patients in neutral version group and 5 (15.2%) of the patients in the 30° retroversion group (p = 0.750). Securing the humeral component at neutral version or 30° of retroversion in rTSA resulted in similar active shoulder external rotation, internal rotation, forward elevation, abduction, and strength measurements, complication rates, and VAS pain, PROMIS-10 physical, and ASES scores at 2 years postoperatively. Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Predicting pain and function with the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients following primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundGlenohumeral joint osteoarthritis is prevalent in the middle-aged and elderly population, affecting approximately 16%-20% of individuals. Total shoulder arthroplasty has become a common treatment for osteoarthritis, with a notable rise in the use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) over the past decade. Despite improvements in surgical technique and prostheses, 22% of patients continue to experience chronic pain following shoulder arthroplasty. Currently, medical practitioners lack a reliable method for identifying which patients will suffer from persistent pain and functional limitations after surgery. In this context, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), known for measuring immune-inflammatory reactions and neuroendocrine stress, has gained significant attention. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the predictive potential of the NLR in identifying patients who will experience elevated pain and functional limitations after primary rTSA. MethodsThis study was a retrospective cohort design. Patient data were collected retrospectively between 2019 and 2021 and grouped based on preoperative NLR (≥2.5 and <2.5). Primary outcome measures assessed were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, visual analog scale (VAS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score. Secondary outcomes included active shoulder elevation and external rotation range of motion. Outcome measures were captured before surgery and at 6 and 12 months after surgery. ResultsAt 6 months following surgery, patients with an NLR ≥2.5 scored significantly worse on the VAS (P = .0171), ASES (P = .0015), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (P = .0226). Differences in Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores were not significant (P = .2705). Forward elevation and external rotation range of motion were similar between groups at 6 months (P = .7777 and P = .2630, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference between groups at 12 months across all variables. Multivariate analysis showed that an NLR <2.5 had a significant positive effect on the ASES score (P = .0011) at 6 months after adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, depression, low back pain, and diabetes. ConclusionsManagement of patients with chronic pain continues to be challenging with limited high-value interventions. Early identification of patients likely to have a protracted recovery following rTSA would allow for a multidisciplinary approach earlier in the recovery phase. Based on our results, patients who had a preoperative NLR value greater than 2.5 reported higher levels of pain, more functional limitations, and perceived poorer function at 6 months following rTSA. However, these effects were relatively small and not observed at the 12-month mark.

Self-assessment of range of motion in patients undergoing surgery for a unilateral shoulder condition.

This study aimed to investigate the agreement of patient-assessed and researcher/physician-assessed measurements of the difference in range of motion between the unaffected and affected shoulders in 55 patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery for a unilateral shoulder condition. The investigation included 55 patients (17 women and 38 men; median age=53 years; range=26-74) with a symptomatic unilateral shoulder condition and a surgically treatable diagnosis. Images of a model/researcher performing active shoulder abduction, flexion, external rotation, and internal rotation were created. Each image was paired with a degree diagram or a level system (for internal rotation) on the back for the patient to accurately self-evaluate and record. Each patient was instructed to attentively examine the figures and perform the movements with the same posture as depicted. On the day of surgery, prior to the procedure, 2 independent researchers who were not involved in the patient's care used a standard goniometer to assess the same active movements that the patient had previously self-assessed. For agreement analyses, the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman plots were calculated for continuous data (abduction, flexion, and external rotation), and Cohen's weighted kappa was calculated for ordinal categorical data (internal rotation). The intraclass correlation coefficient for abduction, flexion, and external rotation was 0.93 (excellent) 95% CI (0.87, 0.96), 0.89 (good) 95% CI (0.81, 0.94), and 0.72 (moderate) 95% CI (0.52, 0.84), respectively. Cohen's kappa for internal rotation (measured as reaching levels on the back) was 0.63 (moderate). We believe that patient-assessed measurements of abduction (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.93) and flexion (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.89) can be used as a valid substitute (for measurements by a clinician or researcher). Patient-assessed measurements for external rotation (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.72) and internal rotation (kappa 0.63) are in moderate agreement and should be used more cautiously as substitutes. Level II, Diagnostic Study.

Influence of Pain Sensitivity on Surgical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background: The Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) has been found to be a valid tool, and PSQ scores have been shown to be predictive of outcomes after surgery for lumbar stenosis. The effect of pain sensitivity on outcomes of rotator cuff repair (RCR) surgery has not been examined. Hypothesis: PSQ scores would be associated with surgical outcomes after arthroscopic RCR surgery. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Patients 18 to 80 years old scheduled for RCR were consecutively enrolled. Patients with glenohumeral arthritis grade ≥2 or RCR revision surgery were excluded. PSQ was completed preoperatively. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score were used as patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs), and visual analog scale pain score was documented as well. Active shoulder external rotation (ER), internal rotation, and anterior forward elevation range of motion (ROM) were recorded. PROMs and ROM measurements were recorded preoperatively and at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. Rotator cuff tear size, type of repair, and concomitant procedures were documented. Patients were classified as having high or normal pain sensitivity based on PSQ scores. Results: Of 100 enrolled patients, 38 patients were classified as having high pain sensitivity. Patients with high pain sensitivity had worse American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 1 year postoperatively (P < .01). From the preoperative assessment to 3 months postoperatively, PROMs improved more in patients with high versus normal pain sensitivity. However, for patients with high pain sensitivity, PROMs plateaued after 3 months but continued to improve for patients with normal pain sensitivity (P < .01). Visual analog scale pain scores were higher at all time points for patients with high pain sensitivity (P < .05). Preoperatively, patients with high pain sensitivity had restricted active ROM compared with patients who had normal pain sensitivity for anterior forward elevation, ER, and internal rotation (P = .009, P = .012, and P = .006, respectively). By 1 year after surgery, ER ROM was still restricted in patients with high pain sensitivity. Conclusion: Pain sensitivity is an important factor influencing RCR outcomes. Patients with high pain sensitivity undergoing RCR showed less improvement in active ROM and worse PROMs after surgery compared with patients who had normal pain sensitivity. Preoperative PSQ may predict postoperative improvements.

Permanent Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: Helsinki Shoulder Protocol.

Passive shoulder exercises from birth and ultrasound screening from 3 to 12 months. Botox is given to shoulder internal rotators and a bracing commenced, if alpha-angle exceeds 30°, or passive shoulder external rotation is below 70 degrees. Plexus reconstruction is recommended to children with root avulsion(s) on magnetic resonance imaging or 3-month Toronto Test Score < 3.5. Specific neurotization is recommended to children without avulsions, but lack of progress in healing. Shoulder dysplasia was diagnosed in 49% of 270 patients with permanent brachial plexus birth injury in our catchment area from 1995 to 2021. The age at detection of shoulder dysplasia dropped from mean 5.4 years in children born before 2000 to mean 3.9 months in children born after 2009. Botox was given to 57% of the patients born after 2009. Rate of shoulder relocation decreased from 28 to 7% while mean active shoulder external rotation in adduction increased from 2 to 46°.

The Relationship Between Frailty and Functional Outcomes, Range of Motion, and Reoperation After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fracture.

The objective of this study was to investigate whether frailty is associated with functional outcomes, motion, and reoperation at a minimum of 2 years after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) for proximal humerus fracture. We performed a retrospective study of 153 patients who underwent rTSA for proximal humerus fracture at two level 1 trauma centers from 2003 to 2018 with minimum 2-year follow-up. Frailty was assessed using the modified 5-item frailty index (mFI). The primary outcome variable was the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score at minimum 2-year follow-up. The secondary outcome variables were the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), the Shoulder Subjective Value (SSV), the 0 to 10 numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score, surgical complication, and reoperation. Bivariate comparisons were made between mFI and outcome variables. The mean age of the 153 patients was 70 years, and 76% were women. Forty patients (26%) had a mFI score of 0, 65 patients (42%) had a mFI score of 1, 40 patients (26%) had a mFI score of 2, and 8 patients (5%) had a mFI score of 3. Twenty-seven patients (18%) had complications, and 21 patients (14%) underwent reoperation. At minimum 2-year follow-up, mFI was not associated with ASES shoulder score, SPADI, SPADI pain or disability subscales, SSV, NRS pain score, active and passive shoulder forward flexion, abduction, and external rotation, complication, or reoperation. Provided they survive the initial physiologic insults of trauma and surgery, patients with higher mFI scores treated with rTSA for proximal humerus fracture can expect similar medium-term restoration of shoulder function. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(5):274-279.].

The effect of botulinum toxin application on latissimus dorsi and teres major muscles in patients with brachial plexus birth palsy: An electron microscopic and clinical study.

In brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP), botulinum toxin may be utilized to prevent glenohumeral dysplasia and to maintain the stable growth of the glenohumeral joint. Repeated injections may cause muscular atrophy and their functional effects are uncertain. The aim of this study was to compare the microstructure and the function of the muscles that received two injections before transfer with the muscles that were not injected. BPBP patients that were operated between January 2013 and December 2015 were included in the study. Latissimus dorsi and teres major muscles were transferred to humerus in standard fashion. Patients were divided in two groups according to bo-tulinum toxin status. Group 1 was toxin negative whereas Group 2 was toxin positive. For each patient, mean latissimus dorsi myocyte thickness (LDMT) was measured with electron microscopy and pre-operative and post-operative active shoulder abduction, flexion, external and internal rotation, and Mallet scores were evaluated with goniometry. Fourteen patients (seven patients per group) were evaluated. Five patients were female whereas nine were male. Mean LDMT was not affected significantly (p>0.05). The operation improved shoulder abduction, flexion, and external rotation significantly (p<0.05), independent of the toxin status. The internal rotation decreased significantly only in Group 2 (p<0.05). The Mallet score increased in both groups, but it was not significant (p>0.05), independent of the toxin status. Botulinum toxin that was applied twice prevented glenohumeral dysplasia and it did not cause permanent latissimus dorsi muscle atropy and function loss in late period. It augmented upper extremity functions by alleviating internal rotation contracture.

Latissimus dorsi transfer vs. lower trapezius transfer for posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) and lower trapezius transfer (LTT) are effective treatment options for posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs) in relatively young patients and elderly high-demand patients without arthritic changes. However, the optimal treatment option for patients with posterosuperior IRCT remains a subject of ongoing debate. This study aimed to compare clinical and radiologic short-term outcomes between arthroscopic-assisted LDT (aLDT) and arthroscopic-assisted LTT (aLTT) in patients with posterosuperior IRCT. This retrospective crossover study included patients who underwent aLDT or aLTT for posterosuperior IRCT and who had a minimum clinical follow-up time of 2years after undergoing surgical procedures between January 2012 and June 2019. A total of 90 patients with posterosuperior IRCT were divided into 2 groups according to the surgical procedure: group D underwent aLDT (n=48) and group T underwent aLTT (n=42). Clinical outcomes comprised the visual analog scale score for pain, active shoulder range of motion (ROM), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score, and activities of daily living that require active external rotation (ADLER) score. Radiologic outcomes included acromiohumeral distance (AHD). The progression of arthritis was evaluated using Hamada grade. Graft integrity was assessed using postoperative magnetic resonance imaging. Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed in both groups. Active shoulder external rotation (P<.001), postoperative ASES score (P<.001), and ADLER score (P<.001) were significantly higher in group T than in group D. AHD at 2-year follow-up was significantly higher in group T than in group D (P<.001). The rate of progression of arthritis was significantly higher in group D (31.3%) than in group T (7.1%) (P=.031). Although both LDT and LTT improved the overall clinical outcomes of patients with posterosuperior IRCT, LTT was superior to LDT in terms of shoulder ROM, functional improvement, and progression of arthritis. Our findings indicate that LTT may be the preferred treatment option for posterosuperior IRCT in relatively active and young patients.

Transfer of a C7 Fascicle for the Pectoralis Major to the Suprascapular Nerve: A 3-Year Follow-Up Patient Series

Background: In patients with C5-C6 brachial plexus injury, spinal accessory nerve transfer to the suprascapular nerve is usually performed for the restoration of shoulder abduction. In order to minimize donor deficits, we transferred one fascicle of the ipsilateral C7 root, dedicated to the pectoralis major muscle, to the suprascapular nerve. Methods: Ten patients with a mean age of 33 years (range, 19 to 51 years) were operated on at a mean delay of 4 months after their trauma (range, 2 to 7 months). Patients had C5-C6 brachial plexus palsy with avulsed roots on spinal magnetic resonance imaging scan. In addition to the partial C7 transfer, patients sustained nerve transfers to the posterior branch of the axillary nerve and to the motor branches of the musculocutaneous nerve for the biceps and brachialis muscles. Results: At a mean follow-up of 36 months (range, 29 to 42 months), mean shoulder abduction and external rotation ranges of motion were, respectively, 99 degrees (range, 60 to 120 degrees; p = 0.001) and 58 degrees (range, 0 to 80 degrees; p = 0.001). In nine patients, shoulder abduction strength was graded M4, according the British Medical Research Council grading scale, against 1.6 kg (range, 1 to 2 kg), and was graded M3 in one patient. External rotation strength was graded M4 in nine patients and M3 in one patient. Residual strength of the pectoralis major muscle was graded M4+ in every patient. Conclusions: C7 partial transfer to the suprascapular nerve showed satisfactory results at long-term follow-up for active shoulder abduction and external rotation recovery in C5-C6 brachial plexus palsies. This technique replaced spinal accessory nerve transfer in the authors’ practice. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Cumulative Effects of a Week's Training Loads on Shoulder Physical Qualities and Wellness in Competitive Swimmers.

BackgroundCompetitive swimmers are exposed to high training loads, which can contribute to the development of shoulder pain. There is a lack of research investigating the interactions between the accumulation of training loads and factors associated to shoulder pain in swimmers.PurposeThe primary objective was to analyze the changes in shoulder physical qualities and wellness factors over a week of training in competitive swimmers. A secondary objective was to compare the changes in these variables between different swim-training volumes performed during the week.DesignCross-sectional.MethodsThirty-one national and regional-level swimmers were included (18 females, 13 males; age= 15.5 ± 2.2 years). Active shoulder external rotation (ER) range of motion (ROM), shoulder-rotation isometric torque, and wellness factors using the Hooper questionnaire were measured twice over the week: a baseline measurement (before Monday´s training session) and a follow-up during the week. Participants were divided into a high-volume group (HVG) and low-volume group (LVG) based on the day follow-up was performed. HVL (n= 15) was tested at the end of the training week (after Saturday´s session) and LVG (n= 16) during the week (after Thursday or Friday´s session). Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of the whole week was recorded after the follow-up session.ResultsAt follow-up, the LVG averaged a volume of 26.2 ± 2.2 km, whereas the HVG averaged a volume of 37.5 ± 3.7 km. LVG and HVG participants decreased active shoulder ER ROM on dominant (p= 0.002; p= 0.006) and nondominant sides (p= 0.001; p= 0.004), displayed increased muscular soreness (p= 0.001; p= 0.007) and worsened overall wellness (p< 0.001; p= 0.010). Fatigue (p= 0.008) and poor sleep quality were increased (p= 0.023) in HVG, but not in LVG. There were no changes in shoulder-rotation torque and stress in any group. Regarding between-groups differences, only weekly RPE was higher (p= 0.004) in HVG.ConclusionsThe accumulation of training loads over the week negatively affect physical and wellness factors. Greater swim-volumes were associated with an increase perception of training loads. The regular monitoring of multiple factors to assess swimmers’ response to training might be necessary.Level of evidence3

A protocol-based treatment plan to improve shoulder function in children with brachial plexus birth injury: a comparative study.

Children with permanent brachial plexus birth injury have a high risk of developing posterior shoulder subluxation. In 2010, we implemented a protocol to reduce the incidence of this deformity, including early passive exercises, ultrasound screening, botulinum toxin-A injections, shoulder splinting and targeted surgeries. Two-hundred and thirty-seven consecutive children treated at our institution, with a mean follow-up of 11 years (range 1 to 17) were compared in three groups: children born from 1995 to 1999 (n = 53), 2000-2009 (n = 109) and 2010-2019 (n = 75). Posterior shoulder subluxation developed in 48% of all patients but the mean age at detection of shoulder subluxation decreased from 5 years to 4.9months. Need for shoulder relocation surgery also decreased from 28% to 7%. Mean active shoulder external rotation in adduction improved from 2° to 46°. In conclusion, our established protocol has the potential to reduce the incidence of posterior shoulder subluxation in children with brachial plexus birth injury.Level of evidence: II.

Change in shoulder external rotation strength and motion after lower trapezius transfer to the infraspinatus in children with obstetric brachial plexus palsy.

Quantifying changes in shoulder external rotation range of motion and strength after lower trapezius transfer in children with obstetric brachial plexus palsy (OBPP). This prospective study included five children with sequelae of OBPP, with a mean age of 6.4 years (range: 4-12 years) who underwent lower trapezius tendon transfer to restore active external rotation (ER) of the shoulder. Pre-operatively and at a 12-month follow-up assessment, we analyzed the passive and active shoulder ER, the modified Mallet score, and the shoulder rotator muscles strength using an isokinetic device. Clinical parameters improved significantly after trapezius transfer pre-operative passive ER from -8° (range: -20-0°) to 37° (range: 15-50°) (p = 0.035), the modified Mallet score from 13 (range: 10-15) to 18 (range: 17-19) (p = 0.035). Strength testing revealed improved ER muscle strength in all five cases; the mean Peak Torque increased from 1.95 to 4.46 N·m, albeit non-significantly (p = 0.062). Two patients exhibited a winged scapula post-operatively. Lower trapezius transfer seems encouraging to restore shoulder external rotation in OBPP children but with non-significant strength improvement. 18/07/31/5783, December 22, 2018.

Surgical Technique: Lower Trapezius Transfer in Paediatric Paralytic Shoulder.

The therapeutic management of the paralytic shoulder after an obstetric brachial plexus injury is complex. When nerve repair or neurotization fail, or if the biological times for nerve reconstruction is over, tendon transfer to restore active external rotation of the shoulder becomes the main surgical alternative. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the surgical technique of the lower trapezius muscle transfer to the infraspinatus muscle, to restore active shoulder external rotation in the child with paralytic shoulder, step by step with details and pearls.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty-early results

Although reverse shoulder arthroplasty is used in massive rotator cuff tears, it is also used in proximal humerus fractures and shoulder arthroplasty revision. In this study, we aimed to examine the early radiological and clinical results of patients undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty with different diagnoses. Between 2010 and 2013, reverse shoulder arthroplasty was applied to 10 patients (4 men, 6 women) with the diagnosis of arthropathy due to rotator cuff tear (n: 7), multi-fragmentary proximal humerus fracture (n: 2) and hemiarthroplasty revision (n: 1). The median age of the patients was 74 (64-85) years and the median follow-up was 15.5 (3-35) months. Patients were assessed in terms of joint range of motion, Constant score and Visual Pain Scale (VAS) and radiological examinations before and after surgery. Preoperative active shoulder flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation degrees of the patients were 65, 30, 40 and 50 degrees, and 105, 95, 30, 57.5 degrees respectively in their final controls. Constant score was 20.5 (14-63) preoperatively, and 54.5 (38-64) in the final controls (p˂0.05). While the preoperative VAS was 7 (3-9), it was found to be 1.5 (1-3) in the final controls (p˂0.05). As a complication, scapular notching was observed in one patient. Internal external rotation values were better in the rotator cuff arthropathy group than the fracture group. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty, especially in the treatment of patients with rotator cuff arthropathy, has good early results and a low complication rate. We recommend paying attention to the glenoid component location to avoid scapular notching.

Shoulder range of movement in the general population: age and gender stratified normative data using a community-based cohort

BackgroundAn understanding of the average range of movement of the shoulder that is normally achievable is an important part of treatment for shoulder disorders. The average range of active shoulder flexion, abduction and external rotation was measured in a population cohort aged 20 years and over without shoulder pain and/or stiffness in order to provide normative shoulder range data.MethodsCross-sectional analysis using participants in a community-based longitudinal cohort study. There have been three stages of data collection – Stage 1 (1999–2003), Stage 2 (2004–2006) and Stage 3 (2008–2010). Each stage has consisted a of broad ranging computer assisted telephone interview, a self-complete questionnaire and a clinic assessment. Participants in this study are those who undertook assessments in Stage 2. The main outcome measures were active shoulder range of movement (flexion, abduction and external rotation) measured as part of the clinic assessment using a Plurimeter V inclinometer. Mean values were determined and analyses to examine differences between groups (sex and age) were undertaken using non-parametric tests.ResultsThere were 2404 participants (51.5% male), mean age 45.8 years (SD 17.3, range 20–91). The average range of active right shoulder flexion was 161.5° for males and 158.5° for females, and active right shoulder abduction was 151.5° and 149.7° for males and females respectively. Shoulder range of movement declined with age, with mean right active shoulder flexion decreasing by 43° in males and 40.6° in females and right active shoulder abduction by 39.5° and 36.9° respectively. External rotation range also declined, particularly among females.ConclusionTo our knowledge this is the largest community-based study providing normative data for active shoulder range of movement. This information can be used to set realistic goals for both clinical practice and clinical trials.

Shoulder internal rotation contracture in brachial plexus birth injury: proximal or distal subscapularis release?

In cases of brachial plexus birth injury with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder, the subscapularis muscle may be released proximally, from the subscapular fossa, or distally, along with periarticular soft tissues arthroscopic to the glenohumeral joint. We hypothesized that the indication for each procedure would rely primarily on patients' bone remodeling potential and periarticular soft-tissue contractures, performing proximal releases in patients aged < 4 years and periarticular distal releases in older patients. The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes such a strategy could provide. All patients presenting with brachial plexus birth injury-related shoulder internal rotation contractures who underwent a subscapularis release were included; in addition, to restore the joint axial balance, the infraspinatus was systematically reanimated with a tendon transfer (ie, latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius) during the same operating time. Chartreview yielded preoperative and postoperative clinical and radiographic measurements, including active and passive rangeof motion of the shoulder in external rotation (ER) with the arm at the side of the body, the modified Mallet score, glenoid version, and the percentageof the humeral head arthroscopicto the middle of the glenoid process. Between July 2012 and January 2018, 28 children were operated on at our institution. In patients who underwent proximal subscapularis release(n = 13), significant improvements were observed regarding active shoulder ER, passive shoulder ER, the modified Mallet score, glenoid version, and the percentage of the humeral head arthroscopic to the middle of the glenoid process, averaging 58° ± 32° (P < .0001), 56° ± 20° (P < .0001), 9.7 ± 3.1 points (P = .0006), 15° ± 10° (P = .0034), and 24% ± 20% (P = .0113), respectively, after a mean follow-up period of 4 years. Following distal release procedures (n = 15), these improvements averaged 26° ± 29° (P = .0024), 27° ± 28°(P = .0011), 3.3 ± 4.1 points (P = .0049), 2° ± 17° (P = .4086), and 4% ± 18% (P = .215), respectively, after a mean follow-up period of 3 years. When combined with axial rebalancing of the joint, the proximal release of the subscapularis muscle appears to be sufficient to provide satisfactory functional outcomes in patients with great bone remodeling potential and supple periarticular soft tissues. In older patients, a more comprehensive release of the glenohumeral joint's arthroscopic aspect seems to provide lower but still significant clinical improvements.

Double-Nerve Transfer to the Axillary Nerve in Traumatic Upper Trunk Brachial Plexus Injuries Using an Axillary Approach: Anatomical Description and Preliminary Case Series

Restoration of shoulder external rotation remains challenging in patients with C5/C6 brachial plexus injuries (BPI). To describe a double-nerve transfer to the axillary nerve (AN), targeting both its anterior and posterior motor branches, through an axillary route. A total of 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric brachial plexuses were dissected. Using an axillary approach, the infraclavicular brachial plexus terminal branches were exposed, including the axillary, ulnar, and radial nerves. Under microscopic magnification, the triceps long head motor branch (TLHMB), anteromedial fascicles of the ulnar nerve (UF), the anterior motor branch of the axillary nerve (AAMB), and the teres minor motor branch (TMMB) were dissected and transected to simulate 2 nerve transfers, THLMB-AAMB and UF-TMMB. Several anatomical criteria were assessed, including the overlaps between fascicles when placed side-by-side. Six patients with C5/C6 BPI were then operated on using this technique. TLHMB-AAMB and UF-TMMB transfers could be simulated in all specimens, with mean overlaps of 37.1 mm and 6.5 mm, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 23 mo, all patients had recovered grade-3 strength or more in the deltoid and teres minor muscles. Mean active shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation with the arm 90° abducted were of 128°, 117°, and 51°, respectively. No postoperative motor deficit was found in the UF territory. A double-nerve transfer, based on radial and ulnar fascicles, appears to be an adequate option to reanimate both motor branches of the AN, providing satisfactory shoulder active elevations and external rotation in C5/C6 BPI patients.

Double nerve transfer for restoring external rotation of the glenohumeral joint after neonatal brachial plexus injury.

The probability of spontaneous recovery of shoulder external rotation in neonatal brachial plexus injury (NBPI) is very low after the age of 18 months. We report the outcomes of double nerve transfers to restore active external rotation of the glenohumeral joint in children with NBPI after this age. Retrospective analysis of 20 children of mean age of 23.8 months with a mean follow-up of 14.8 months. Inclusion criteria were: age > 18 months, full passive glenohumeral external rotation in abduction, and absence of severe joint deformity on MRI. The spinal accessory nerve was transferred to the infraspinatus motor branch and the long head of the triceps motor branch to the teres minor motor branch. Anterior shoulder release was associated when passive shoulder external rotation in adduction (pERADD) was <30° (n = 13, Group R vs. Group N-no release n = 7). Active shoulder elevation and external rotation in abduction (aERABD) of the glenohumeral joint were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. All children except two in Group R, recovered aERABD 4-6 months after surgery. Mean postoperative aERABD was 70 ± 32.4 and 82.9 ± 11.1° and shoulder elevation gain was 24.6 ± 22.2 and 27.1 ± 29.2° for Group R and N, respectively, without statistically significant differences. Late nerve transfers to external rotator muscles are effective in children with NBPI. This might be explained not only by muscle reinnervation, but also by the interruption of a previous co-contraction or developmental apraxia. Therapeutic IV.

The Effect of Distal Transfer of the Spinal Accessory Nerve to the Suprascapular Nerve on the Shoulder Reanimation in Spontaneously Partially Recovered Obstetric Brachial Plexus Lesion.

Spontaneous recovery of elbow flexion in obstetric brachial plexus palsy at 4 to 6 months of age is sufficient to exclude the child from the early microsurgical intervention. However, lack of complete active external rotation of shoulder is a common finding in such cases despite ongoing other arm and shoulder functions. Nerve transfer is proposed to manage such cases before the age of 18 months. The aim of this study was to study the distal transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to the suprascapular nerve through posterior approach and its effect on the shoulder reanimation in patients with obstetric brachial plexus lesion who had spontaneously recovered biceps function but not shoulder function before the age of 18 months. This prospective study included 20 patients admitted to Elhadra University Hospital with obstetric brachial plexus lesion aged between 10 and 18 months with spontaneous recovery of biceps function, weak active shoulder abduction grade 4 or grade 5 and deficient active shoulder external rotation. All patients were assessed preoperative and postoperative by Active Movement Scale. Active shoulder external rotation improved in all patients at the end of follow-up period, whereas the shoulder abduction improved in 80%. Early surgery in patient younger than 16 months shows better results. The distal transfer of spinal accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve is an effective method for active shoulder abduction and external rotation recovery in spontaneously recovered elbow flexion in obstetric brachial plexus lesions. Better results are obtained in patients younger than 16 months old. Early transfer balances the forces around the shoulder joint, preventing shoulder internal rotation contracture.

Long-term Evaluation of Teres Major to Infraspinatus Transfer for Treatment of Shoulder Sequelae in Obstetrical Brachial Plexus Palsy.

The long-term results of soft tissue rebalancing procedures of the shoulder in obstetric brachial plexus palsy have been scarcely reported. The effect of this procedure on the evolution of secondary bone changes has been a subject of controversy. Twenty-six children are included in this study. All initially had postganglionic C5-6 or C5-7 (Narakas types I and II) obstetric brachial plexus palsy, which spontaneously recovered. Children included are those who had persistent external rotation weakness with or without internal rotation contracture, nondysplastic glenohumeral joint, and functioning teres major. All had anterior shoulder release and teres major to infraspinatus transfer to correct internal rotation deformity and/or increase active shoulder external rotation. Patients were 18 males and 8 females. The right upper limb was affected in 16 patients, and the left in 10. Surgery was performed at an average age of 3.01 years (range, 1-10 years). Follow-up averaged 8.2 years (range, 5-16 years). Eight cases (30%) were followed up for 10 years or greater. Age at final follow-up averaged 10.5 years (range, 6-17.8 years). The results showed to be significant: 67 degrees (63%), 71.3 degrees (412%), and -32 degrees (-35%), respectively. There was no single recurrence of internal rotation deformity. Global Mallet score averaged 20 ± 2.7. Global abduction and external rotation averaged 3.5 ± 0.8 and 4 ± 0.3, respectively. Shoulder abduction range included an average of 45 degrees glenohumeral and 65 degrees scapulothoracic motion. Postoperative internal rotation in adduction was limited to 55.96 ± 25.65 degrees and was significantly lower that the preoperative value. Radiological measurements showed no significant differences between the operated and normal sides. We conclude that the long-term results after soft tissue rebalancing, combined with open reduction when required, demonstrated significant improvement of abduction and external rotation and significant loss of internal rotation. The difference in glenoid version and humeral head subluxation continued to be insignificant compared with the normal side.