United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Be careful what you wish for

I've been a part of these boards for over 8 years now and discussing the "best" doctor has created some pretty nasty tension. From someone who has been around the block a few times - only you can determine the best doctor by gathering your information and interviewing the doctors of interest yourself. Each doctor also seems to have their own approach to each procedure - in my experience this happened at a clinic where both doctors were on the same team.

I emailed you off the boards on my opinion of mod quad; however in terms of doctors I would recommend getting multiple opinions, determine your child's core issues and choose the best surgeon to meet your child's immediate needs.

Good luck.

Cindy

Hi Antoinette, My daughter had the tendon transfer, muscle release and also had her shoulder placed back into the correct position. Tori had her surgery in 2005, she was Three when she had the surgery. The Doctor done a great job! Tori can raise her (L) arm above her head, put it behind her back, has good hand to mouth movement and can supinate pretty good too. Tori's arm is not perfect, and never will be. That is something that I now know and I am ok with that. I have some recent video of Tori if you would like to see how well she has progressed since surgery. Email me anytime and I would be glad to share with you. I wish I had known about this message board and other OBPI families when Tori was born, we could have used the support, so I am glad we are here now and also that you have found your way also. I have learned so much in such a short time. Good luck with all that you do.

Hi Antoinette!

My son, Tyler, who is now 9, had the Mod Quad at age 5 with Dr. Shenaq, who passed away earlier this year. Before the surgery, he barely had any range of motion, nor could he touch the back or the top of his head. He could not lift his arm any higher than maybe 30 degrees up. I can even send you before and after pics if you'd like. After sending the video tape to Dr. Shenaq's office, the Mod Quad was recommended. After surgery, he can lift his arm nearly straight up, with a slight bending at the elbow. He did therapy 4 times a week for 6 months, and then dropped down to 2 times a week for a year. His arm was in the splint for 3 months, sticking straight out to the side. It definitley made for some interesting conversation when going out in public. Tyler was still able to play, eat, and pretty much do anything for himself. He just learned to adapt to it!

Good luck with your decision!

~Laura