Article

Consensus opinion is that active movement of the elbow is a priority in the
surgical treatment of total brachial plexus injuries.
But the indications and
neurotization techniques used to restore motor function of the hand are the
subject of discussion.
The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate, in
adult patients with complete post-traumatic paralysis of the brachial plexus, the
functional results of neurotization of four intercostal nerves on the
musculocutaneous nerve and grafting of the C5 root by one strand on the nerve to
the long head of triceps and three strands on the medial component of the median
nerve. The cohort included 21 patients (mean age 21years). The average time
between the trauma and surgical treatment was 4.8months. At a mean follow-up of
22months, 67% of patients achieved>/=M3 elbow flexion, and 62% achieved>/=M3
active elbow extension. Of the patients who had the required follow-up of 2years
to assess motor recovery of the median nerve, 40% achieved function>/=M3. Based
on our results, use of the C5 root is suitable for surgically restoring elbow
extension and finger flexion.
CI - Copyright (c) 2016 SFCM. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS