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Shoulder: Muscle transfers as an alternative to joint replacement

Introduction to muscle transfers in shoulder surgery

Shoulder dysfunction due to Nerve damage, rotator cuff tears or muscle atrophy can significantly reduce the quality of life. During the joint replacement is a common solution for severe shoulder disorders, muscle muscle transfers offer an alternativeto restore function restore function without artificial implants.

Muscle transfers enable the relocation of healthy musclesto compensate for the loss of functionso that patients can improve their mobility and reduce pain. This article describes when muscle transfers are useful, which muscles are used and what advantages they have compared to total shoulder joint replacement.

When are muscle transfers useful?

Muscle transfers are particularly beneficial for patients with:

  • Irreparable rotator cuff tears that lead to chronic instability.
  • Damage to the brachial plexus associated with loss of muscle function.
  • Severe muscle atrophy due to neurological diseases.
  • Patients who require an alternative to joint replacement, whether due to young age or medical contraindications

Through the Repositioning functioning muscles patients can regain their regain their shoulder mobility and strengthwithout having to undergo invasive joint replacement surgery.

Are you looking for muscle transfers as an alternative to joint replacement?
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Frequently used muscles and their functions

Latissimus dorsi transfer

  • Used to compensate for massive rotator cuff tears .
  • Improves external rotation and shoulder elevation.
  • Particularly suitable for younger, active patients.

Pectoralis major transfer

  • Ideal for nerve damage or paralysis.
  • Supports internal rotation and forward movement of the arm.

Trapezius transfer

  • Frequently caused by damage to the accessorius nerve (e.g. after radical surgery or trauma).
  • Helps with abduction and stabilization of the shoulder.

Depending on the severity of the disease, these muscle transfers enable patients to regain partial or complete function of the shoulder.

Advantages of muscle transfers compared to other treatment methods

  • Preservation of the natural joint - In contrast to joint replacement, the patient's own shoulder joint is preserved.
  • Better mobility - restoration of function without restrictions through an implant.
  • No risk of implant-related complications - no abrasion, loosening or infection, as can occur with artificial joints.
  • Ideal for active patients - Younger or athletically active patients benefit from greater freedom of movement and stability.
  • Long-term durability - While artificial shoulder prostheses wear out over time, muscle transfers can provide a permanent solution.

Who can benefit from muscle transfers?

Muscle transfers are particularly suitable for:

  • Patients with irreparable rotator cuff injuries.
  • People with nerve-induced muscle paralysis.
  • Younger patients who want to avoid early joint replacement.
  • Athletes and active people who rely on shoulder stability and strength.

A detailed orthopaedic examination helps to determine whether a muscle transfer is the right solution for the individual patient.

Are you looking for muscle transfers as an alternative to joint replacement?
Contact me

Success rates and case studies

Studies show that muscle transfers significantly improve significantly improve shoulder function and relieve pain can. The success rate depends on the individual condition, but most patients report:

  • Increased shoulder mobility.
  • Significant reduction in pain within six months of the operation.
  • High patient satisfaction thanks to the restoration of everyday movement sequences.

Case study: Latissimus dorsi transfer for rotator cuff tears

A 45-year-old patient with chronic rotator cuff tear underwent a latissimus dorsi transfer. After the operation he achieved 90% of his shoulder mobility and was able to return to his job and to pursue his profession and recreational sports.

Frequently asked questions

Full recovery usually takes 3-6 monthswhere physiotherapy is crucial for regaining strength and mobility.

While joint joint replacement is a solution for severe osteoarthritisare muscle transfers are more suitable for patients with muscle deficits or nerve-related loss of function.

Most patients report a significant improvementbut full recovery depends on the severity of the original severity of the original injury depends on the severity of the original injury.

After the operation temporary pain which can be well controlled with well controlled with medication and physiotherapy. are. The symptoms decrease with healing.

For an individual examination and treatment options you can contact me in my practice in Vienna.

Contact for a consultation

If you suffer from shoulder dysfunction and are considering muscle transfers as a treatment option, contact me. I specialize in modern shoulder reconstruction techniques to restore function and improve quality of life.

The following languages are spoken in my ordination:

German, English, French, Russian, Slovak, Czech

My ordination in 1190 Vienna
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