Trapezius transfer for shoulder paralysis: 6 patients with brachial plexus injuries followed for 1 year

We transferred the trapezius with its bone insertion to the proximal humerus in 6 patients for treatment of a paralytic shoulder secondary to traumatic lesions of the brachial plexus. After 1 year, the shoulder abduction was improved from average 13 degrees (0 degrees-30 degrees) preoperatively to 76 degrees (50 degrees-100 degrees) postoperatively, and the shoulder flexion from 18 degrees (0 degrees-40 degrees) to 78 degrees (45 degrees-110 degrees) postoperatively. All the patients were satisfied with the outcome. We consider that transfer of the trapezius in a paralytic shoulder after brachial plexus injury gives a better outcome than shoulder fusion.