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.