Brachial plexus injury in adults: Diagnosis and surgical treatment strategies

Abstract

Adult post traumatic Brachial plexus injury is unfortunately a rather common injury in young adults. In India the most common scenario is of a young man injured in a motorcycle accident. Exact incidence figures are not available but of the injuries presenting to us about 90% invole the above combination This article reviews peer-reviewed publications including clinical papers, review articles and Meta analysis of the subject. In addition, the authors′ experience of several hundred cases over the last 15 years has been added and has influenced the ultimate text. Results have been discussed and analysed to get an idea of factors influencing final recovery. It appears that time from injury and number of roots involved are most crucial.

Direct Spinal Ventral Root Repair following Avulsion: Effectiveness of a New Heterologous Fibrin Sealant on Motoneuron Survival and Regeneration

“…The brachial plexus injury is extremely debilitating for the patient because, besides significant upper limb function loss, it causes an everyday tasks limitation [6], which can result in unemployment, depression, and in some cases even suicide [6]. Such medical problem is typically associated with young patients following motorcycle and radical sports accidents [1].…”

Brachial Plexus Injury in a 6‐Year‐Old Boy with 100% Displaced Proximal Humeral Metaphyseal Fracture: A Case Presentation

“…Prognosis is poor, with little hope of recovery barring surgical intervention. Overall, children have a greater capacity than adults for recovery after peripheral nerve injury because of greater intrinsic capacity for regeneration and a lesser distance needed to travel for regenerating axons [8].…”

Brachial Plexus Injury

“…Sensory loss may present as dry skin in corresponding dermatomes. 19,54 CONCLUSIONS Brachial plexus injuries are challenging to manage and treat. Careful diagnosis and timely referral to a specialist are most essential.…”

“…However, if shoulder and bicep functions are normal but the patient has little hand function, then the lesion likely involves the lower plexus (C8-T1). 19 Similarly, a sensory examination is done through the upper extremity to identify areas with modified sensation. Sensory loss or any altered sensation should be documented, which can manifest itself as dry skin along affected dermatomes.…”