United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

We are seriously considering this procedure for Ruthie. It would give her some added external rotation and a more neutral hand forward position. I would be happy to hear your experiences with this surgery. Thanks.
Nancy

Hi Nancy,
My name is Emily, and I'm 17 years old. 8 weeks ago I had a humeral osteotomy. We were a bit skeptical at first as you and your family must be. Surgery is big, especially for a 17 year who has never had any correctional surgery before. I don't know which doctor you've spoken to, but mine was Dr. Nath. He realized that a 17 year old's bones are too mature for a triangle tilt, therefore a humeral osteotomy was my best bet. He referred me to Dr. Davino who is 15 minutes from him in Richmond, Texas. We flew down, met with both doctors and we very pleased with the information they gave us, so we went ahead with the surgery that next day.
Since the cast came off about 3 weeks ago, I can't even begin to tell you how greatful I am that we found these doctors. I LOVE MY NEW ARM, is what I tell everyone.
Before the surgery I was internally locked. I couldn't supinate, put my hand to my mouth, or to my head. Now, just 8 weeks after surgery (I haven't even started physical therapy yet) I can do every single thing that I couldn't ever do. For me I haven't lost one thing. The only drawback to this surgery is that I will never be able to put my hand all the way behind my back (which I couldn't do any way, so it's not a big deal for me). The incision is healing great and I can't wait to start therapy to build up my strength(you don't here that too often from people like us who have been in therapy all of our lives).
We all know that each case of BPI is so different and varies in so many ways, but for me, the humeral osteotomy was the perfect surgery. It has truly been amazing. If you need further information about ANYTHING, my family and I would be more than happy to help.


Good Luck,
Emily

Hi Emily,
Thank you for your wonderful reply. You gave us some great information and I am so glad that your surgery went well. Congratulations and good luck with your PT.

Ruth had a modquad with Dr. Nath when she was 14 so this will be her second surgery - I agree, surgery is a big deal. She is hoping to get some external rotation and more supination. Isn't it amazing what repositioning can do? We really liked Dr. Nath and the care we got in Texas but I think we will do this surgery in St. Louis which is closer to home for us.

Thanks again, Emily.

Nancy

Nancy,
Sorry, I cant really help you out with this but I wanted to wish you luck in whatever you choose to do!

I have also been thinking about an osteotomy but mine would be to gain pronation. There are ups and down, my down is that I would lose supination past neutral. My up is I would gain pronation. not sure which is more important to me right now. But I am going to ask my doctor when I see him in April what he thinks.

Anyway, Best of luck to you and Ruthie!
Hugs,
Amy 19 years old ROBPI from MN

Amy,
Thanks for your good wishes. Ruth is pretty excited to get some more supination and external rotation. I know she will likely lose the ability to reach behind her back. I am wondering if she will still be able to put her hand on her hip. The Dr. says he is almost sure she will. There are always unknowns ....

Good luck with your apt. in April.
Nancy