Long-term results of scapulothoracic arthrodesis of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy

Many patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy eventually have instability of the scapula resulting from weakness of the scapula stabilizers. A subset of patients, however, has sufficient strength in the supraspinatus and deltoid muscles to flex and abduct the arm, if the scapula has been stabilized. The purpose of this study is to report the clinical results of six patients (9 shoulders) that underwent scapulothoracic arthrodesis for the treatment of limited shoulder motion and scapular winging caused by facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. The average preoperative active flexion was 71°, which improved to 109° at the last follow-up. The UCLA Shoulder Score also rose from 18.4 points to 27.9 points at the last follow-up. All patients did well in activities of daily living after the procedure. Scapulothoracic arthrodesis is considered a successful treatment method for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, as it improves appearance, function, and tolerance to exercise.