• Marcin Sibiński and Marek Synder.
• Clinic of Orthopedic and Pediatric Orthopedics, Medical University of Lodz, Drewnowska 75, 91-002, Lodz, Poland. sibinek@poczta.onet.pl
• Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2010 Dec 1; 130 (12): 149915041499-504.

IntroductionChildren with obstetric brachial plexus palsy (OBPP) frequently have problems related to their shoulder. The aim of the investigation was to determine our results in treating shoulder deformity with tendon transfers and soft tissue releases with and without internal rotational osteotomy. We also evaluated the relationships between neurological status, age and selected clinical parameters.Materials And MethodsWe reviewed data of 25 patients (12 girls) after latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon transfers to the rotator cuff. Internal rotation osteotomy was performed in ten children. The mean age of patients at the time of operation was 3.2 years (range from 10 months to 7.7 years).ResultPatients were followed up for a mean of 3.8 years (minimum 2 years). Mallet score improved 4.7 points at last follow-up (p = 0.00002). No patient had shoulder function deterioration. Active and passive external rotation increased significantly after operation: p < 0.00001, p < 0.00001, respectively. Statistically significant reduction in active internal rotation was noted (p = 0.04). The other movements have not statistically changed after operation. Active internal rotation difference after internal rotation osteotomy was significantly better than without osteotomy (p = 0.03). Neurological involvement and age had neither positive nor negative influence on final range of motion and outcome.ConclusionsSoft tissue rebalancing procedures significantly improve shoulder function in children with persistent OBPP. Addition of internal rotational osteotomy to muscle transfers for severe cases allows maintaining of stabile joint, prevents loosening of internal rotation and does not influence other movements of the shoulder.

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