Surgical Management of Spasticity of the Shoulder

Abstract

Although spastic conditions often involve the shoulder, it is rare for surgical intervention to be required. In cases in which chemodenervation and therapy are insufficient to optimize the patient's function or minimize their care requirements, surgical options, such as tendon and joint releases, can be considered. Tendon transfers are rarely indicated. Nerve transfers, particularly contralateral C7, may play a larger role in the future as we gain further understanding into the risks, indications, and contraindications of this exciting technique.

Keywords: Cerebral palsy; Hemiplegia; Quadriplegia; Shoulder; Spasticity; Stroke; Traumatic brain injury.