Sprengel’s Deformity – A Review Of The Literature

Abstract

Sprengel's deformity is a congenital anomaly of the shoulder, often seen in children. In normal fetal development, the scapula moves down the back to rest in its normal position. However, children with the deformity have a scapula that sits too high on one side. Invariably such children will have limitations in movement of the affected shoulder. Problems such as scoliosis often coexist and affected children are at greater risk of developing renal disease and conditions such as Klippel-Feil syndrome. This article reviews the literature to date, covering: the definition, epidemiology, aetiology, anatomy, clinical features, associated abnormalities, classification, diagnosis and imaging, treatment –both medical and surgical and current controversies around the area.