Results of latissimus dorsi and teres major transfer to the rotator cuff in the treatment of Erb's palsy

A retrospective study of the results of latissimus dorsi and teres major tr ansfer in the treatment of Erb's palsy was conducted in 10 patients. All pa tients underwent release of the pectoralis major and transfer of the latiss imus dorsi and teres major tendons to the rotator cuff at a mean age of 7 y ears and 2 months. Range of motion, patient satisfaction, and presence of a ny complications were evaluated postoperatively at a mean of 3 years. Activ e shoulder abduction improved from a mean of 72 degrees preoperatively to 1 36 degrees postoperatively. Postoperative shoulder active external rotation averaged 64 degrees, Subjectively, all patients participating in a questio nnaire thought use of the operated-on extremity had improved since surgery. All but one patient were satisfied with the final outcome. Complications i ncluded one hypertrophic scar. Transfer of the latissimus dorsi and teres m ajor to the rotator cuff in treatment of persistent Erb's palsy improves sh oulder abduction and external rotation and results in a high degree of pati ent satisfaction.