Treatment of trapezius paralysis.

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.