Giant-cell tumour of the tendon sheath, also called pigmented villonodular synovitis, is a benign tumour with a high incidence of recurrence. We have tried to identify risk factors for recurrence. Of the 48 patients included in the study, 14 received radiotherapy after surgery. Only two (4%) had a recurrence. This compares favourably with previously reported incidences of between 25% and 45%.

We have reviewed 26 patients treated by trapezius transfer for deltoid paralysis due to brachial plexus injury or old poliomyelitis. We assessed the power of shoulder abduction and the tendency for subluxation. There were good results in 16 patients (60%); five were fair and five poor.

Trapezius transfer appears to give reasonable results in the salvage of abductor paralysis of the shoulder.