Arthrodesis of the Shoulder With Subacromial Plating

Shoulder arthrodesis has evolved such that a combined intra-articular and extra-articular technique utilizing a plate and compression screws are the standard of care. The current method of plate fixation to the spine of the scapula passing over the lateral edge of the acromion to the humeral shaft is associated with a high incidence of pressure symptoms. Our aim was to evaluate a new technique for shoulder arthrodesis. A 56-year-old woman who had undergone numerous previous shoulder operations including a failed shoulder arthrodesis was treated by rearthrodesis using an angular-stable plate placed in the supraspinatus fossa and passed below the acromion to achieve scapula-humeral fusion. Radiographic evaluation of union as well as a clinical assessment regarding plate prominence and pain was documented 4 years postoperative. The technique resulted in a stable fixation and union was achieved. This procedure avoids the complication of pressure symptoms related to the plate and hence removal of the plate was not necessary.
Source: Techniques in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Techniques Source Type: research