Osteotomy for congenital elevation of the scapula (Sprengel's deformity).

We report 12 consecutive cases of vertical scapular osteotomy to correct Sprengel's deformity, performed during a 16-year period, with a mean follow-up of 10.4 years. The mean increase in abduction of the shoulder was 53 degrees . The cosmetic appearance improved by a mean of 1.5 levels on the Cavendish scale. Neither function nor cosmesis deteriorated with time. We recommend the procedure for correction of moderate deformities with a functional deficit.