Surgical repair of brachial plexus injury

Abstract

This preliminary report surveys the authors' experience in the treatment of 66 patients with brachial plexus traction injuries. The results of nerve reconstructive surgery obtained in 44 patients with a follow-up of at least 2 years were disappointing; on average, 10% of upper limb function was added. The role of several factors involved in this type of injury and the major draw-backs of treatment are discussed in combination with future possibilities. Current techniques of neurotizations are presented in one case.