Surgical management of Sprengel's deformity by a modification of Green's procedure : A single center experience.

BACKGROUND: Sprengel's deformity is a rare congenital anomaly that can present in children, leading to cosmetic and functional impairment. This study investigated clinical results of this deformity among cases managed using a modified Green procedure.

METHODS: From February 2008 to September 2015 a total of 34 patients with Sprengel's deformity were treated with a modified Green procedure. The mean age of patients at the time of surgery was 4.8 years (range 2-12 years) and the average follow-up time was 6.1 years (range 4-10 years). The shoulder abduction, Cavendish classification, Rigault classification, scapular elevation, and postoperative complications were evaluated.

RESULTS: The mean shoulder abduction was 102.3° (range 70-140°) preoperatively and 142.6° (range 120-170°) postoperatively. The scapular elevation was 4.2 cm (range 2-6.5 cm) preoperatively and 1.35 cm (range 0-2 cm) postoperatively. Improvement by at least one Cavendish and/or Rigault grade was attained in all cases postoperatively. The differences in preoperative and postoperative shoulder abduction, scapular elevation, Cavendish grade and Rigault grade were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: The modified Green procedure is a relatively safe and reliable method in the treatment of severe Sprengel's deformity, which ensures successful shoulder function as well as a good cosmetic appearance.