Contralateral trapezius transfer to treat scapular winging: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND: No dynamic technique, such as tendon transfer, has been described for scapular winging due to levator scapulae or rhomboid major and minor palsies resulting from an isolated dorsal scapular nerve injury. Thus, we evaluated how the contralateral trapezius compound osteomuscular flap transfer would work in stabilizing lateral scapular winging, and the case is reported here. A literature review was also conducted, and articles relevant to the case are presented. CASE SUMMARY: A 37-year-old male patient who had sustained an isolated dorsal scapular nerve injury underwent reconstructive surgery using the contralateral trapezius compound osteomuscular flap transfer technique to treat scapular winging and the consequent pain, and to restore function from the shoulder impairment. As a result, the involved shoulder showed an improved Constant-Murley score, from 19.5% to 81.88%. CONCLUSION: Contralateral trapezius osteomuscular flap transfer succeeded in stabilizing scapular winging in this case, improving shoulder function and affording pain relief.