Gleno-humeral arthrodesis in paralytic shoulders

ABSTRACT

This study is based on results of arthrodesis of paralytic shoulders in eight adult patients. The arthrodesis was performed by using A.O. technique. The cause of paralysis was poliomyelitis in six and brachial plexus injury in two patients. Good hand and elbow function per see or achieved after treatment was a prerequisite for shoulder arthrodesis. In five patients reconstructive procedure for hand, elbow and wrist were performed. A combination of Yeoman's and Cofield's assessment scale was used to evaluate the results. We achieved satisfactory results in all six patients with post polio weakness, whereas, in brachial plexus injuries fair results achieved in one patient, the result in the other patient was rated poor. However, functionally both patients were better post-operatively. We conclude that arthrodesis of shoulder is good salvage procedure for paralytic shoulders, as it provides stable shoulder to make better use of distal joints i.e. elbow and hand