United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I just recently had a trapezius flap transfer to my shoulder in hopes to help support the shoulder. The problem was when they were attaching the muscle to my humerus, it was weak and brittle and broke with the screws. They took a bone biopsy and returned normal. Has anyone had this problem. My arm is in a airplane splint for six weeks to keep pressure off the muscle flap. Slowly I can lower the arm after it has had time to heal. Does anyone have the same problem I had?

Thanks
Nate

Nate - I don't know a whole lot about the trapezius transfer but I am waiting to hear from the Mayo Clinic (Dr Elhassan's team) as the next step in my surgery. My understanding is that the airplane splint is routine for this procedure. Hopefully, someone else on the forum may have some experience.

Pat

You know me Mr Positive Fact I have read posts regarding possible amputation?? I hope that these post ,show having a amputation should not happen if helped Now by fact of postings that treatments are there to a point . By fact if your not in time for one treatment because of time than hopefully your in time at the present time to find something else for now I am very happy to see that at 32 years later you still can find new treatment So in fact if a doctors say I wish you saw me earlier and the window for treatment , should be seen as option than fact After 32 years and new treatment CAN happen to help, Sure see a doctor as soon as possible and get treatment , But apparent to me is some are not getting the right referrals and direction to be in time for some treatment, Its really up to the treating doctor to refer you to a doctor that will help in time. It makes me sad so many post are looking for treatments and direction . It is on the treating doctor to direct you to get these treatment in time like you read here Thank God for posting , If one person can find a new treatment or try something in spit of there limitation than it becomes a true blessing to me Than hope may really be fact I hope this helps???

Tom

I had the tendon transfer done by Dr. Elhassan in March of 2010, I didnt have the airplane splint and the muscle ruptured very soon after the surgery but went unnoticed until weeks into PT with no improvement. So Dr Elhassan did it again last October and this time I was put into the Airplane splint completely immobilized for 12 weeks. And I have since had fantastic results.
Brandon Hubbard

Congratulations,Brandon!
I hope you consider attending Camp 2012 so I can Hug YOu!
Carolyn J
LOBPI/73+
ps...I'm in Tacoma(WA); can we meet 1/2 way like South Center Cheese Factory or Rain Forest Cafe?