Function after subtotal scapulectomy for neoplasm of bone and soft tissue

Abstract

We describe the functional results in 14 patients (7 men, 7 women) after subtotal scapulectomy for primary bone and soft-tissue tumours at a specialist musculoskeletal oncology unit. Eight had chondrosarcomas, two Ewing's sarcomas, one aggressive fibromatosis and three soft-tissue sarcomas. The mean follow-up was 52 months (6 to 120). Analysis of residual symptoms and of range and strength of movement by physicians used the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society rating scale (MSTS). Physical disability was measured by the patients using the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS).All 14 patients are still alive, two with systemic disease. Nine had more than 80% of their scapula resected but the glenohumeral joint was preserved in all cases. Eight had full movement and another two achieved 90° of flexion. The mean functional results were good to excellent in all except three patients (mean MSTS = 71.6 and TESS = 79.9). Two of these three patients had considerable pain as a result of brachial neuropathy.Scapulectomy gives an excellent functional result if the glenohumeral joint is preserved. The rotator cuff could be removed without a severe functional deficit provided that the deltoid was reattached to the scapular remnant and the trapezius.

Limb sparing surgery for bone tumours of the shoulder girdle: the oncological and functional results

“…As the glenohumeral joint is well preserved, the extremity function that is obtained is good. Gibbons et al [6] reported the mean MSTS score was 71.6% in 14 cases with partial scapulectomy and concluded that the rotator cuff could be removed without a severe functional deficit provided that the deltoid was reattached to the scapular remnant and the trapezius. Mayil Vahanan et al [7] also reported partial scapulectomy in eight cases and gave superior functional results to total scapulectomy.…”

The functional and oncological results after scapulectomy for scapular tumours: 2–16-year results

“…Retention of glenohumeral articulation is important for the function of the shoulder joint after scapulectomy [7]. Gibbons et al [7] Fig.…”

Primary malignant tumours of the scapula—a review of 29 cases

“…Although the shoulder girdle, including the proximal humerus, the scapula and the clavicle, is the third most common site for tumours of bone and soft tissue tumours, primary tumours of the scapula still present a rare diagnosis [1][2][3][4]. Most common tumours involving the scapula are chondrosarcoma in adolescents and Ewing's sarcoma in children [3].…”