Trapezius paralysis is a painful, disabling problem. Eighteen patients
with trapezius paralysis were evaluated and initially treated
conservatively. Nine patients had had a misdiagnosis prior to evaluation
and only one patient was successfully treated conservatively. Ten patients
underwent operative reconstruction, consisting of transfer of the levator
scapulae and rhomboid muscles. Seven patients were followed for more than
two years, and they had five excellent results, one satisfactory result,
and one unsatisfactory result. All patients had improved function and
correction of deformity, and six patients had good pain relief.