United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Would someone please explain to me what a humeral osteotomy is extactly? I'm not sure and recently our therapist suggested that we see a specialist again because our daughter might benefit from a humeral osteotomy. She keeps her elbow up to shoulder height. She cannot put it down and complains that it hurts if you try to. I would appreciate all the help I can get.

A humeral osteotomy is when they cut the humerus (arm bone from shoulder to elbow) in half and reposition the bone and put small plates in to hold it together so that it heals in that perfect new position. Repositioning the bone is supposed to really increase function and also change the "look" to a more natural look.

I have pictures of a before and after here: http://www.injurednewborn.com/index6.html
it's the boy with the heart - left is before and right is after. Quite a difference in position.

This is like the diehard (most common) surgery for bpi's. They've been doing this one the longest, I believe.

hope this helps,
francine

The "boy with the heart" did not have a humeral osteotomy; he had an ulna and radial osteotomy. At the time of this procedure (one and half years ago) this was a new procedure in brachial plexus children. The procedure improved the cosmetics of the arm but did not improve function.

whooops - sorry..thought it was a humeral osteo... I'll make myself a note so that I don't forget. Thanks for the heads up.

Lana,
I have some information from Dr. Nath about the Humeral Ostecomy surgery at TCH. Our daughter, Caroline - age 7, was suggested to have this surgery by Dr. Nath and we are in the research and planning stage. She has already had 4 previous surgeries with TCH. Please feel free to email me so we can talk.
Kathy

Kathy - can you post some info here so we can all read and learn - so many people have been asking about it lately...
thanks
francine

Francine and Lana,

The little boy just to the left and up one row (with the green cast), was a humeral osteotomy. The picture was taken in the hospital. If you look closely, you can see the bandage over the incision, just below his left shoulder. The doctor did the "Mod Quad" (he didn't call it that), and then did the Osteotomy for more release - strictly for function, not cosmetic. And Francine you described the procedure perfectly. But Lana, if you have any questions, please email me. It's a busy time at work, but I'll get back to you as quickly as I can.

Best wishes,
Patty
(Cole Michael's mom)