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Book

Erb Palsy

Hajira Basit  1 , Citra Dewi M. Ali, Neal B. Madhani  2
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.
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Book

Erb Palsy

Hajira Basit et al.
Free Books & Documents

Excerpt

Erb palsy, or Erb-Duchenne paralysis, is a paralysis of the arm caused by the injury to the upper group of the main nerves supplying it, specifically the upper trunk C5-C6 of the brachial plexus. It is one of the most common neurological birth injuries, and these injuries most commonly, though not exclusively, arise from the traction on the neck during difficult childbirth. According to the severity of the injury, it can either resolve on its own over some time or may require rehabilitative therapy and surgery.

It is often assumed that the cause is the obstetrical technique during delivery, but two major risk factors include shoulder dystocia and the large size of the fetus. Most cases resolve with time, but a few infants may need surgery. Permanent disability is rare.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure: Hajira Basit declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Citra Dewi Ali declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Neal Madhani declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

References

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    1. Chater M, Camfield P, Camfield C. Erb's palsy - Who is to blame and what will happen? Paediatr Child Health. 2004 Oct;9(8):556-560. - PMC - PubMed
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    1. Acker DB, Gregory KD, Sachs BP, Friedman EA. Risk factors for Erb-Duchenne palsy. Obstet Gynecol. 1988 Mar;71(3 Pt 1):389-92. - PubMed
    1. Levine MG, Holroyde J, Woods JR, Siddiqi TA, Scott M, Miodovnik M. Birth trauma: incidence and predisposing factors. Obstet Gynecol. 1984 Jun;63(6):792-5. - PubMed

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