Variation of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic motion in progressive severity of glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to investigate the variation of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic motion in progressive severity of glenohumeral osteoarthritis using a 3-D-motion analysis. Moreover, the variation of the Constant Score is evaluated. HYPOTHESIS: The hypothesis is that the motion of the scapulothoracic joint may partly compensate for the loss of the glenohumeral joint movement in patients with increasing severity of glenohumeral osteoarthritis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 21 patients with primary osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint were clinically examined, divided in three groups (SP1-SP3) according to size of their caudal osteophyte. The contribution of the scapulothoracic (acromioclavicular and sternoclavicular) joint to the total arm (humerothoracical) elevation in sagittal and frontal plane was measured with 3D motion analysis and the Constant Score was evaluated. DISCUSSION: In sagittal plane elevation (anteversion) the contribution of the scapulothoracic joint to the total elevation was while arm raising 32.7% (SD 8.0%) in Group SP1, 36.6% (SD 11.0%) in Group SP2 and 49.6% (SD 9.0%) in Group SP3 (p=0.002). The contribution of the scapulothoracic joint to the total elevation while arm lowering was 31.4% (SD 9.0%) in Group SP1, 39.0% (SD 13.0%) in Group SP2 and 49.7% (SD 12.0%) in Group SP3 (p=0.043). In frontal plane elevation (abduction) the contribution of the scapulothoracic joint was while arm raising 33.7% (SD 8.0%) in Group SP1, 34.0% (SD 10.0%) in Group SP2 and 42.3% (SD 9.0%) in Group SP3 (p=0.071). While arm lowering the contribution of the scapulothoracic joint was 30.8% (SD 10.0%) in Group SP1, 36.3% (SD 12.0%) in Group SP2 and 44.8% (SD 8.0%) in Group SP3 (p=0.022). The group SP1 achieved a Constant Score of 78.00 (SD 9.823) points. The group SP2 achieved a Constant Score of 53.57 (SD 13.92) and the group SP3 38.64 (SD 10.40). There is a significant difference between the three groups (p<0.001). Increasing severity of glenohumeral osteoarthritis leads to a reduced motion of the glenohumeral joint. Instead the magnitude of the scapulothoracic motion increases. LEVEL OF PROOF: V, Case Series.

Evolution of nonoperative treatment of atraumatic sternoclavicular dislocation.

BACKGROUND: Atraumatic sternoclavicular dislocation (ASCD) is an uncommon pathology that is mainly diagnosed in young adults. The aim of this study is to better describe the clinical picture of ASCD and to describe the results of a "wait-and-see" policy in these patients. METHODS: All patients with ASCD who visited our department between 2011 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. A standardized clinical examination was used to evaluate the clinical picture. All patients were treated nonoperatively, and at latest follow-up, several parameters and standardized questionnaires (Nottingham Clavicle Score, Oxford Shoulder Score, Constant-Murley Score) were used to evaluate the outcome. RESULTS: In total, 23 patients (12 male, 11 female) were evaluated. The average age at diagnosis was 18.6 years. There was a significant difference (P < .001) in angle of dislocation during forward flexion (mean = 141°) compared with abduction (mean = 101°). At latest follow-up (average 46 months, range 14-113 months; standard deviation [SD] = 27), subluxations still occurred but were less frequent and less prominent relative to presentation at initial diagnosis in 19 of 23 patients. The chance of subjective improvement increased by 27% for each year of follow-up. High outcome scores of Nottingham Clavicle Score (mean score = 80, SD = 11), Oxford Shoulder Score (mean score = 44, SD = 4), and Constant-Murley Score (mean score = 83, SD = 11) were reported. CONCLUSION: In patients with ASCD, the clavicle subluxates earlier in abduction than in forward flexion. After a midterm follow-up, a "wait-and-see" policy does not resolve the subluxations. However, most patients displayed reduced frequency and severity of subluxations over their recovery period and showed excellent scores on shoulder questionnaires.

Clinical Outcomes and Complications Following Surgical Management of Traumatic Posterior Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocations: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocations are rare orthopaedic emergencies. Treatment typically consists of closed reduction, with surgical management reserved for unstable cases. Because of the low prevalence of this condition, limited clinical evidence exists for a superior surgical stabilization technique. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was performed. MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched using a comprehensive search strategy. A descriptive and critical analysis of the results was performed. RESULTS: Forty relevant studies (108 cases) were identified. Favorable subjective and objective outcomes were reported for all 5 categories of stabilization described. The overall complication rate was 16%, including 4 cases of recurrent instability. Ligament reconstruction using tendon graft had the lowest recurrent instability and complication rates, and open reduction and internal fixation techniques required a second operation for implant removal in 80% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive review of the surgical management of traumatic posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocations is presented. Results suggest favorable outcomes for all of the methods of stabilization, with a modest complication rate. The trends observed have helped to guide the development of clinical care recommendations that aid in treatment decision-making for these injuries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Severe right upper chest pain · tender right sternoclavicular joint · Dx?

A 16-year-old hockey player presented to our emergency department with sharp pain in his right upper chest after "checking" another player during a game. The pain did not resolve with rest and was worse with movement and breathing. The patient did not have dysphagia, dyspnea, paresthesias, or hoarseness. The physical examination revealed tenderness over the right sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) without swelling or deformity. A distal neurovascular exam was intact, and a chest x-ray showed no evidence of dislocation or fracture. The patient's pain was refractory to multiple intravenous (IV) pain medications.

Sternoclavicular joint replacement case report.

INTRODUCTION: This report describes the first known sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) replacement with a custom-made prosthesis. HISTORY: A 42-year-old male who presented post left medial clavicular excision with significant pain and limited range of motion impeding his daily activities and ability to work. The patient subsequently underwent a left SCJ arthroplasty with a custom-made prosthesis. Postoperatively, the patient suffered an anterior dislocation of the prosthetic joint which was successfully rectified and stabilized with soft tissue reconstruction, creating a pseudo-capsule from adjacent tissues of the joint. Thereafter, the patient required a final procedure to remove prominent sutures. RESULTS: Currently, the patient has regained full range of motion and is pain free during most activities and has now returned to work, with a plan to review his progress in 1 year. These initial promising results post SCJ replacement with the custom-made prosthesis could potentially lead SCJ reconstruction in an exciting new direction. DISCUSSION: More research should be encouraged regarding this nascent operative option, in order to identify the indications, parameters, and effectiveness of SCJ arthroplasty.

Non-modifiable Risk Factors Associated with Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocations in the U.S. Military.

INTRODUCTION: Sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocations, although uncommon, are observed in patients with ligamentous laxity as well as those who experience traumatic injuries. The incidence and epidemiology of this costly and debilitating injury to our relatively young and active military population have not previously been reported. The purpose of this study is to consider and quantify the non-modifiable risk factors associated with this injury. METHODS: Using Defense Medical Epidemiological Database, first-time occurrences, from 2006 to 2015 for the ICD-9-CM code 839.61 (closed dislocation of the SCJ), were obtained and further categorized by gender, race, age, rank, and branch of service. Race was classified based on self-reporting of patients into White, Black, or other categories. Age was divided into the categories of less than 20 yr, 20-24 yr, 25-29 yr, 30-34 yr, 35-39 yr, and greater than 40 yr. Rank was categorized as junior enlisted (E-1 to E-4), senior enlisted (E-5 to E-9), junior officer (O-1 to O-3), and senior officer (O-4 to O-10). Branch of service includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Multivariate data analysis was performed to obtain rate per 1,000 person-years as well as adjusted rate (adjusted for age group, gender, race, rank, and service) to isolate risk factors. RESULTS: Between 2006 and 2015, 427 cases of closed SCJ dislocations occurred among an at-risk population of 13,772,342 person-years for an unadjusted incidence rate (IR) of 0.031 per 1,000 person-years. The annual unadjusted IR ranged from 0.017 in 2006 to 0.059 in 2014 with the greatest increase occurring between 2006 and 2007 representing 61% increase in the rate of injuries. Males were almost twice as likely to sustain these injuries compared with females (adjusted rate ratio 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23, 2.43). Age was not found to be a risk factor for the development of these injuries with IRs for each age group overlapping with 95% CI for all other age groups. Similarly, the other category for race was also not found to be a statistically significant risk factor. Junior Officers (adjusted rate 0.017; 95% CI 0.011, 0.025) were found least likely to suffer from these injuries with Junior Enlisted (0.034; 95% CI 0.030, 0.040) and Senior Enlisted (0.032; 95% CI 0.028, 0.037) most at risk. Being in the Navy (0.019; 95% CI 0.015, 0.025) was found to be most protective compared with Air Force (0.032; 95% CI 0.026, 0.039), Army (0.036; 95% CI 0.031, 0.041), and Marines (0.036; 95% CI 0.028, 0.045). DISCUSSION and CONCLUSION: Annual unadjusted IR of SCJ dislocations readily increased from 2006 to 2014. Statistically significant risk factors, for suffering a closed SCJ dislocation, identified by our study, were male sex, enlisted rank, and branch of service other than Navy. Age and race were not found to have a statistically significant risk. These results can shed light on non-modifiable risk factors for dislocations of the SCJ and can be used in other studies to aid in reducing injury burden on the U.S. Military.

Biomechanical Comparison of Surgical Techniques for Resection Arthroplasty of the Sternoclavicular Joint.

BACKGROUND: The optimal location and extent of medial clavicle resection for sternoclavicular (SC) joint resection arthroplasty are unknown. HYPOTHESIS: Resection of the intra-articular disc alone cannot reliably decompress the SC joint, and a parallel resection technique will decompress the SC joint significantly more compared with the same amount with an oblique resection technique. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Force transmission through the SC joint was measured in 7 matched-pair human cadaveric SC joints in a dynamic tensile testing machine. The specimens were randomized to either a parallel or an oblique resection technique. An 80-N axial load was applied on the lateral clavicle toward the SC joint in each of the following 4 conditions: (1) intact joint, (2) after resecting the intra-articular disc, (3) after resecting 5 mm of the medial clavicle, and (4) after 10-mm resection. RESULTS: Complete discectomy of all SC joints resulted in a significant reduction of force transmitted through the SC joint (P = .002). However, the varying anatomy of the disc was accompanied by a varying amount of joint decompression (95% CI, 29.8%-65.4%). Resecting 5 mm of the SC joint with the parallel technique decompressed the SC joint by a mean (±SD) of 76.7 ± 22.1 N compared with 37.8 ± 24.8 N with the oblique technique (P = .02). Decompression did not significantly differ between the groups after 10-mm resection (P = .18) using the parallel technique (89.4 ± 24.1 N) compared with the oblique technique (68.2 ± 31.6 N). Furthermore, 5-mm resection of the medial end of the clavicle with the parallel technique decompressed the SC joint by an amount similar to 10-mm resection with the oblique technique. CONCLUSION: Resection of the disc alone did not reliably decompress each SC joint. Resection of 5 mm of the medial end of the clavicle with the parallel resection technique reliably decompressed the SC joint better than with the oblique resection technique. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides baseline data on SC joint resection techniques and their mechanical effects. This knowledge can be implemented in clinical practice to treat patients with symptomatic posttraumatic arthritis of the SC joint.

Surgical Management of Sternoclavicular Joint Infections.

BACKGROUND: Infections of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) respond poorly to nonoperative management and typically require resection. We examined presenting characteristics and outcomes after surgical management of SCJ infections, reviewing a 20-year single-institution experience. METHODS: From January 1992 to December 2012, 40 patients (age, 57 ± 12 years; 70% male) underwent resection of an infected SCJ. Sternal infections after cardiac surgery were excluded. Clinical features, microbiology, recurrence, survival, and functional impairment were assessed. Infection was documented by the surgeon, and supported by tissue culture. Clinical presentation and treatment course were obtained by review of medical records. The functional assessment was determined by phone interviews using the validated QuickDASH outcome measure. Mortality data were gathered from the medical record. RESULTS: Pain was the presenting symptom in 93% of patients. Staphylococcal species were isolated in 73% of tissue specimens. Fifteen patients (37%) underwent primary closure and 25 patients (63%) underwent closure by secondary intention with application of negative-pressure wound therapy. There were four recurrences (10%), one after primary closure and three in the secondary intention group. No deaths occurred within 30 days of operation, and 5-year survival was 67%. Functional assessment using the QuickDASH outcome measure revealed minimal loss in upper extremity function after the procedure (preoperative score, 10 ± 3; postoperative score, 19 ± 6.8; n = 11). There was no difference in functional outcome comparing primary closure versus secondary intention (19 ± 4.4 versus 20 ± 8.2; p = 0.64). CONCLUSIONS: Septic arthritis of the SCJ is routinely managed surgically at many centers. We report that primary closure with a muscle flap can achieve similar outcomes to secondary intention in selected patients. Furthermore, patients experienced minimal functional impairment at long-term follow-up.

Simplified Method for Treating Osteomyelitis of the Sternoclavicular Joint.

Osteomyelitis of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare yet challenging problem. It is commonly treated by resection and a muscle flap. We report a case that was treated with single-stage resection of both the sternoclavicular joint and part of the sternum followed by implantation of calcium sulfate beads impregnated with antibiotics and primary closure without a muscle flap. A single-stage debridement with resection for osteomyelitis of the sternoclavicular joint and primary closure with calcium sulfate beads impregnated with antibiotics may be an option when dealing with this difficult clinical problem.

Effect of sternoclavicular joint mobilization on pain and function in a patient with massive supraspinatus tear.

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can be difficult to treat conservatively, especially when the patient has multiple comorbidities. Although there is evidence to support interventions aimed at the spine, there is paucity in the literature describing interventions to the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) in individuals with rotator cuff pathology. A 57-year-old female with multiple comorbidities and a body mass index of 59 was referred to physical therapy with a 4-month history of right shoulder pain, significant functional limitations, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), demonstrating a full-thickness supraspinatus tear. She presented initially with active shoulder flexion range of motion (ROM) 0-80°, numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) 7/10, and QuickDASH 65.9%. After six physical therapy sessions, the patient had plateaued with improvements in pain and ROM. SCJ mobilizations at visit 7 immediately improved pain, active ROM, and subjective reports of function. The patient was discharged after 13 visits with increased active shoulder flexion ROM to 0-170°, NPRS 1/10, QuickDASH 31.8%, and Global Rating of Change (GROC) +5. This case highlights the successful conservative treatment of an individual with an irreparable rotator cuff tear and numerous comorbidities by using a multimodal approach including SCJ mobilizations.

Management and functional outcomes following sternoclavicular joint dislocation.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to describe the demographics, management and functional outcomes of patients presenting with a sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocation. METHODS: A retrospective medical record review was conducted examining patients with SCJ dislocation admitted to an adult level 1 trauma centre between 2004 and 2012. Patient demographics, symptoms, associated injuries, imaging technique used in diagnosis, surgical data and neurovascular complications were recorded. Patients received a single-page questionnaire to assess physical function using two validated shoulder questionnaires. RESULTS: A total of 22 patients were identified, out of which 77% sustained a posterior dislocation. Mean age was 30 years (range 16-65), and the most common cause of injury was a direct blow during sport (n=11). Open reduction and internal fixation were performed in 13 patients, definitive closed reduction used in seven and two patients were managed expectantly. Functional outcomes for patients were excellent, with American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) scores >80 in 87.5% of cases. There were preoperative symptoms consistent with mediastinal compression in 50% and one delayed presentation with thoracic outlet syndrome. No patient had neurovascular compromise or functional deficit post-operatively, regardless of joint congruency. CONCLUSION: This is the largest case series from a single institution currently available examining SCJ dislocation. We recommend an initial trial of closed reduction, followed by open reduction and internal fixation if there is joint instability or malreduction. Functional outcome following both closed and open reduction of the SCJ is excellent.

Outcomes of augmented allograft figure-of-eight sternoclavicular joint reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) instability is a rare condition resulting in impaired function and shoulder girdle pain. Various methods for stabilizing the SCJ have been proposed, with biomechanical analysis demonstrating superior stiffness and peak load properties with a figure-of-8 tendon graft technique. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of SCJ reconstruction with an interference screw figure-of-8 allograft tendon technique. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a consecutive cohort of patients from 2007 to 2011 was performed for all patients undergoing SCJ reconstruction for instability. All patients were treated for SCJ instability with a figure-of-8 allograft reconstruction augmented by 2 tenodesis screws. Outcomes were performed with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain score for all patients. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 10 patients were included in the study, with an average follow-up of 38 months (range, 11.6-66.8 months). Preoperatively, the mean ASES score was 35.3 points (range, 21.7-55 points), whereas the postoperative mean ASES score increased to 84.7 points (range, 66.6-95 points). The mean VAS score improved from 7.0 (range, 5-10) before surgery to 1.15 (range, 0-3) at follow-up, and the QuickDASH score average was 17.0 points (range, 0 to 38.6 points). Minor postoperative complications were noted in 2 patients. CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent repair of SCJ instability by an augmented figure-of-8 allograft tendon reconstruction report marked improvements in both shoulder function and pain relief.

Assessment of the function and resistance of sternoclavicular ligaments: A biomechanical study in cadavers.

BACKGROUND: Few biomechanical studies have assessed the resistance of the ligamentous structures of the sternoclavicular joint, and none have reproduced the physiological movements of the joint. Determining the structures that are injured in sternoclavicular dislocations is important for the surgical planning of acute or chronic ligament reconstruction. METHODS: Forty-eight joints from 24 human cadavers were studied, and they were divided into 4 groups of 12 joints each (retraction, protraction, depression and elevation). Biomechanical testing assessed primary and secondary failures. The mechanical resistance parameters between movements that occurred on the same plane (depression versus elevation, protraction versus retraction) were compared. RESULTS: The posterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most injured structure during the protraction test, but it was not injured during retraction. The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression. The costoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during elevation. Joint resistance was significantly greater during protraction movements when compared to retraction (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression movements. During protraction, lesions of the posterior sternoclavicular ligament were most frequent during elevation, and the costoclavicular ligament was the most frequently injured ligament. The resistance of the sternoclavicular joint was significantly greater during protraction movement when compared to retraction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, basic science, biomechanics, cadaver model.

Comparison of 3-dimensional shoulder complex kinematics in individuals with and without shoulder pain, part 1: sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, and scapulothoracic joints.

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional. OBJECTIVES: To compare sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, and scapulothoracic joint motion between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals during shoulder motion performed in 3 planes of humerothoracic elevation. BACKGROUND: Differences in scapulothoracic kinematics are associated with shoulder pain. Several studies have measured these differences using surface sensors, but the results of this technique may be affected by skin-motion artifact. Furthermore, previous studies have not included the simultaneous measurement of sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joint motion. METHODS: Transcortical bone pins were inserted into the clavicle, scapula, and humerus of 12 asymptomatic and 10 symptomatic individuals for direct, bone-fixed tracking using electromagnetic sensors. Angular positions for the sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, and scapulothoracic joints were measured during shoulder flexion, abduction, and scapular plane abduction. RESULTS: Differences between groups were found for sternoclavicular and scapulothoracic joint positions. Symptomatic individuals consistently demonstrated less sternoclavicular posterior rotation, regardless of angle, phase, or plane of shoulder motion. Symptomatic individuals also demonstrated less scapulothoracic upward rotation at 30° and 60° of humerothoracic elevation during shoulder abduction and scapular plane abduction. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that differences in shoulder complex kinematics exist between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. However, the magnitude of these differences was small, and the resulting clinical implications are not yet fully understood. The biomechanical coupling of the sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joints requires further research to better understand scapulothoracic movement deviations and to improve manual therapy and exercise-based physical therapy interventions.

Second toe metatarsophalangeal joint transfer for sternoclavicular joint reconstruction.

PURPOSE: We describe the anatomical basis for microsurgical reconstruction of the sternoclavicular joint using a vascularized, innervated second metatarsophalangeal joint, the surgical technique, and outcomes in 2 patients. METHODS: We harvested the second metatarsophalangeal joint along with the joint capsule, portions of the metatarsal and phalanx, the flexor sheath and flexor tendon, the extensor sheath and tendon, the first metatarsal artery, and the deep peroneal nerve. This composite tissue was used for reconstruction of an excised sternoclavicular joint following infection or chondrosarcoma. The proximal phalanx was dowel-jointed into the manubrium and fixed with 1 or 2 screws; the metatarsal was plated to the remaining clavicle. The joint was oriented to allow maximal elevation and restricted depression, and the normal mediolateral laxity allowed anterior and posterior movement. Vascular anastomoses were performed to branches of the thoracoacromial axis vessels, and digital nerves were connected to a supraclavicular nerve. RESULTS: Two patients had their excised sternoclavicular joints reconstructed using this technique. Both achieved union at the clavicular and sternal junctions. Both obtained restoration of movement of the sternoclavicular joint and upper limb. One patient developed joint subluxation and pain requiring tendon graft reconstruction of the costoclavicular ligament. CONCLUSIONS: In these 2 cases, the vascularized second toe metatarsophalangeal joint satisfactorily reconstructed the widely excised sternoclavicular joint and costoclavicular ligament and restored function. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Septic arthritis of the sterno-clavicular joint as a cause of dysphagia: a report of two cases and review of literature.

Septic arthritis of sterno-clavicular joint is a rare entity which is often associated with predisposing conditions like intravenous drug abuse and diabetes. Its prevalence in healthy subjects with absence of medical co-morbidities has been sporadically reported. Due to the rarity of the condition, diagnosis is often delayed predisposing the patients to serious complications. Clinical suspicion supported by haematological and radiological investigations is needed for early diagnosis. Dysphagia as a complication of sterno-clavicular joint infection has not been reported. In this study, we report a case of sterno-clavicular joint infection causing dysphagia and review the literature with regards to aetiology, predisposing factors and treatment options. The aim of this study is to highlight the importance of early diagnosis in suspected cases of septic arthritis of sterno-clavicular joint and institution of intravenous antibiotics.

Surgical technique: Results of stabilization of sternoclavicular joint luxations using a polydioxanone envelope plasty.

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment options for sternoclavicular joint luxations described in the literature are numerous, although all have limitations. Therefore, there is no favorable surgical treatment for sternoclavicular luxations when nonoperative treatment has failed. DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUE: We developed the polydioxanone (PDS) envelope plasty, a modification of the figure-of-eight technique, using a PDS ligament. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 39 patients (40 joints), treated with a PDS envelope plasty for invalidating sternoclavicular luxations. The minimum followup was 10 months (average, 52 months; range, 10-171 months). The Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Constant-Murley shoulder score, and subjective categorical results were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: In most patients, postoperative functional shoulder scores were excellent (mean Constant-Murley score, 90, range, 52-100; mean SST, 10; range, 2-12). Ninety percent of patients had an improvement of shoulder function at followup. Only minor complications occurred. Thirteen percent of patients had spontaneous postoperative subluxations. However, the postoperative shoulder function improved in all these patients. CONCLUSIONS: The PDS envelope plasty is a simple procedure, a modification of the best-reported technique. We have promising results with high shoulder scores. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.