United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Sorry I haven't been around much. I bought a house in june, so I have been busy fixing it up.
Lately I have been thinking about my shoulder dislocating and I have decided it might be best if I get it fused. Does anyone know what type of doctor does this kind of surgery? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanx bunches.
Erica

Hi Erica!

I've never heard of this surgery, but I did a google search and this is the first one that popped up:

http://www.shoulder1.com/news/mainstory.cfm/46/1

I would definitely speak with a BPI specialist or two and get their veiws, as well.

Congrats on the house!

Peggy

Hi Erica
How are you doing? It's been a long time and I am so happy to know you have a new home. Your sister has kept us updated from time to time. I am so glad she did. I have never had any surgery and don't know what is bothering you that you feel you need shoulder fusion. I would check with a brachial plexus specialist. Glad to see you posting and hope you get an answer to your question
Kath

Hi Erica,

Sorry, i dont live in the US so dont know about your doctors. I had my shoulder fused in 2000 by an orthopaedic surgeon.
The procedure was much the same as the link above, except for the bit about bone grafting.... i didnt have this.
My shoulder is now held with 6 rather large screws and 2 metal plates. My ROM was set at 45 degrees and i was in a large brace for 4 months after the op.
As the man in the link above states, i cannot lift my arm up to head level anymore and cant lift heavy weights (it really pulls on the muscle), but i have definately felt the benefit of the surgery.
My elbow no longer pokes out the side and the shoulder pain isnt half as bad as before (this was the reason for my fusion, not because of dislocations).

I was in surgery for 5 hours and in hospital for 2 weeks altogether.

Anything else you want to know, feel free to ask

Janny x

oh yes forgot to mention... the surgery left me with quite a big ugly scar....... about twelve inches from the front of my shoulder across to the back.
My wound burst hence why my scar is yuck!!

Janny x

Hi Janny,
My name is Delora. I have had seven shoulder surgeries. I am going to have a shoulder fusion in about a month or so. It sounds like it's not going to be much fun. Anything that you could tell me to get me prepared would be of great help. Thanks.
Delora