shoulder arthrodesis

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is now seldom performed, but is indicated in cases of severe shoulder dysfunction. Stable scapulothoracic movement is essential if some movement at the shoulder is to be preserved, but function can be good postoperatively.

Conditions in which shoulder arthrodesis might be appropriate are:

• paralysis of the scapulohumeral muscles
• infection of the joint, such as tuberculous arthritis
• advanced erosive arthritis

Apley, A.G. et al. (1993) Apley's System of Orthopaedics and Fractures 7th ed Butterworth-Heinemann