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Iamaguchi RB, Rosa de Rezende M. Functional Free Muscle Transfer for Reconstruction of Traumatic Adult Brachial Plexus Injuries. Hand Clin 2024; 40:259-267. [PMID: 38553097 DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic brachial plexus injury is the most common indication for functional free muscle transfer, and elbow flexion recovery is the functional target, followed by shoulder stability and hand reanimation. In this article, we provide a literature review of functional free muscle transfer (FFMT) for adult traumatic brachial plexus injuries and the surgical technical recommendations to achieve the best functional results with FFMT for adult traumatic brachial plexus injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Bernardelli Iamaguchi
- Hand Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery Group of the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Clinics Hospital of University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Rosa de Rezende
- Hand Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery Group of the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Clinics Hospital of University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Marina L, Sanz E, Morillo Balsera MC, Cristobal L, Maldonado AA. Optimizing donor fascicle selection in Oberlin's procedure: A retrospective review of anatomical variability using intraoperative neuromonitoring. Microsurgery 2024; 44:e31178. [PMID: 38661385 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transfer of the fascicle carrying the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) branch of the ulnar nerve (UN) to the biceps/brachialis muscle branch of the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin's procedure), is a mainstay technique for elbow flexion restoration in patients with upper brachial plexus injury. Despite its widespread use, there are few studies regarding the anatomic location of the donor fascicle for Oberlin's procedure. Our report aims to analyze the anatomical variability of this fascicle within the UN, while obtaining quantifiable, objective data with intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) for donor fascicle selection. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of patients at our institution who underwent an Oberlin's procedure from September 2019 to July 2023. We used IONM for donor fascicle selection (greatest FCU muscle and least intrinsic hand muscle activation). We prospectively obtained demographic and electrophysiological data, as well as anatomical location of donor fascicles and post-surgical morbidities. Surgeon's perception of FCU/intrinsic muscle contraction was compared to objective muscle amplitude during IONM. RESULTS Eight patients were included, with a mean age of 30.5 years and an injury-to-surgery interval of 4 months. Donor fascicle was located anterior in two cases, posterior in two, radial in two and ulnar in two patients. Correlation between surgeon's perception and IONM findings were consistent in six (75%) cases. No long term motor or sensory deficits were registered. CONCLUSIONS Fascicle anatomy within the UN at the proximal arm is highly variable. The use of IONM can aid in optimizing donor fascicle selection for Oberlin's procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Marina
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Sanz
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical Science and Health, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Carmen Morillo Balsera
- Department of Topographic Engineering and Cartography, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lara Cristobal
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical Science and Health, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andres A Maldonado
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical Science and Health, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Moulinier C, Bellity L, Saghbiny E, Bachy-Razzouk M, Hanneur ML, Fitoussi F. Correlation between histopathological nerve assessment and clinical recovery in brachial plexus birth injuries. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2024; 49:583-590. [PMID: 37728875 DOI: 10.1177/17531934231200378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
In the management of brachial plexus birth palsies, the quality of the roots eligible for reconstruction is thought to be a key issue. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the correlations between pathological root examination and motor recovery after brachial plexus reconstructions. Quantitative histopathological analysis of intraneural fibrosis was conducted on 72 nerve transections (40 roots, 18 trunks and 14 suprascapular nerves) in 20 patients. Clinical recovery of targeted muscles after surgery was assessed by standardized functional scores. After a mean follow-up of 32 months, patients with a lower fibrosis rate for the suprascapular nerve had greater global Mallet scores (r = -0.57; p = 0.042) as well as a greater active shoulder flexion (r = -0.66; p = 0.015). Correlations were also found between C6 root and upper trunk fibrosis rate and some of the subsections of the Mallet score, active movement scale for the biceps and active elbow flexion. These results seem to confirm the relevance of intraoperative pathological evaluation of the roots and nerves after neuroma resection to optimally define the reconstruction strategy.Level of evidence: IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Moulinier
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Lorie Bellity
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Elie Saghbiny
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Manon Bachy-Razzouk
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Malo Le Hanneur
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
- Hand to Shoulder Mediterranean Center, ELSAN, Clinique Bouchard, Marseille, France
| | - Frank Fitoussi
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sorbonne Medical University, Trousseau Hospital, Paris, France
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Baruah S, Bhat DI, Devi BI, Uppar AM, Bharti K, Ramalingaiah AH. DREZotomy in the management of post brachial plexus root avulsion neuropathic pain: fMRI correlates for pain relief. Br J Neurosurg 2024; 38:327-331. [PMID: 33463389 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2021.1872769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deafferentiation pain following brachial plexus root avulsion has been documented to be severe enough to affect activities of daily living in patients. Microsurgical DREZotomy is known to alleviate the symptoms by decreasing the afferent signals transmitted from the spinal cord to sensory cortex. OBJECTIVES To document and analyse the effectiveness of DREZotomy and to evaluate the role of 'sensory cortex' in the cause and relief of dysesthetic pain, using fMRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective study conducted between 2010 and 2016 and included all patients who underwent DREZotomy for dysesthetic pain following traumatic brachial plexus injury (TBPI). Patients were evaluated both preoperatively and postoperatively with Visual Analogue Scale(VAS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression score (HADS) and SF36 questionnaire and effectiveness of surgery was assessed. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the brain in resting state was performed before and after surgery and was also compared with controls. Patients underwent standard microsurgical DREZotomy from C5 to D1. Postoperative assessment was done at 6 weeks and 6 months following surgery. RESULTS Our series had 18 patients aged between 22 and 63 years. RTA was the most common cause of injury. There was significant decrease in pain at 6 months follow up compared to pre-operative values as assessed by VAS, HADS, SF36 questionnaire. fMRI analysis revealed cluster activations in the sensory, motor cortex and in the right cingulate gyrus in the preoperative group which was higher than in normal controls. In the postoperative group, the size of the resting state activation was significantly reduced. CONCLUSION DREZotomy is an effective procedure for TBPI patients. We hypothesize that these fMRI findings reflect the cortical reorganization that occurs not only after injury but also following successful surgery which explains the cause and relief of dyesthetic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyakam Baruah
- Department of Neurosurgery, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | | | - Alok Mohan Uppar
- Department of Neurosurgery, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Komal Bharti
- Department of Neurosurgery, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Arvinda H Ramalingaiah
- Department of NeuroImaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Kesavan PK, Balan JR, Kunnath AS, Roy V, Prasanna PH. Retro Oesophageal Transfer of Contralateral C7 in Birth Brachial Plexus Injury - A Retrospective Study. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2024; 29:104-110. [PMID: 38494168 DOI: 10.1142/s2424835524500115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Background: Presence of available healthy nerve roots on the injured side determines the outcome after nerve reconstruction. Paucity of nerve roots warrants contralateral C7 harvest for optimal results. We aim to study the risks and benefits of retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 root in infants with birth brachial plexus injury. Methods: Study was carried out from 2017 to 2022 in 13 children who have undergone retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 root to affected side. Follow-up period ranged from 8 to 60 months after the surgery. Motor power assessment was done using by active movement scale. Results: Average active movement score for abduction was found to be 6, elbow flexion 5.7, elbow extension 5.8, wrist extension 3, wrist flexion 4, finger flexion 4.8 and finger extension 3.8, respectively. No neurological deficits, limb length anomaly noted in the normal upper limb after contralateral C7 harvest. Conclusions: Retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 is a safe technique in birth brachial plexus injury. The advantage of retro oesophageal transfer is reduction in the length of nerve grafts, thus helping in early neurotisation of distal forearm and hand muscles. The large axonal output from contralateral C7 can be used to reconstruct different nerves without any residual deficits on the normal side. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar Kesavan
- Sushrutha Institute of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Elite Mission Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Jyoshid R Balan
- Sushrutha Institute of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Elite Mission Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Ajai S Kunnath
- Sushrutha Institute of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Elite Mission Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Vinu Roy
- Sushrutha Institute of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Elite Mission Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Prince H Prasanna
- Sushrutha Institute of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Elite Mission Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Rezzadeh K, Rezzadeh K, Donnelly M, Daar D, Hacquebord J. The association between number of intercostal nerves transferred and elbow flexion: a systematic review and pooled analysis. Br J Neurosurg 2024; 38:398-403. [PMID: 33599553 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2021.1884188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This pooled analysis evaluates the association between the number of nerves transferred and postoperative outcomes after intercostal nerve (ICN) nerve transfer for elbow flexion. METHODS A systematic and pooled analysis of studies reporting individual patient demographics and outcomes after ICN-musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) transfer for traumatic brachial plexus injury was conducted. The primary outcome was the ability to attain an elbow flexion Medical Research Council (MRC) score of ≥4 at the final postoperative follow-up visit. RESULTS Ten studies were included for a total of 128 patients. There were 43 patients who underwent two ICNT, 77 patients who underwent three ICNT, and 8 patients who underwent four ICNT. The three groups did not differ in ability to achieve MRC ≥ 4 (2ICNT 48.8%, 3ICNT 42.9%, 4ICNT 50.0%, p = 0.789). The number of ICNs transferred was not associated with MRC scores ≥4 on the multivariable analysis (OR: 0.55, p = 0.126). CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that two ICN transfers may be as effective as three ICN and four ICN transfers and highlight the potential for nonsurgical factors to influence postoperative outcomes. Taken together, this pooled analysis leads us to question the utility of transferring >2 ICNs for MCN neurotization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Rezzadeh
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kameron Rezzadeh
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Megan Donnelly
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Daar
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacques Hacquebord
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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Macêdo LP, Freire Filho JBM, de Souza FHM, Almeida NS, Azevedo-Filho HRC. Transfer of the phrenic nerve to musculocutaneous nerve via sural nerve graft after total brachial plexus injury. Br J Neurosurg 2024; 38:546-547. [PMID: 34180321 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2021.1908518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
A middle age male presented a right total brachial plexus injury after motorcycle fall one year ago. Subsequent electromyographic evaluation was consistent with C5, C6, C7, C8 and T1 root avulsion. The patient was submitted to a right transfer of the phrenic nerve to musculocutaneous nerve , using rural nerve graft.
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Mendiratta D, Levidy MF, Chu A, McGrath A. Rehabilitation protocols in neonates undergoing primary nerve surgery for upper brachial plexus palsy: A scoping review. Microsurgery 2024; 44:e31154. [PMID: 38376241 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Surgical management is recommended in patients with severe neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) within the first 6 months of age to regain best possible function. Rehabilitation post-surgery remains relatively unexplored. This is a scoping review that explores, which rehabilitation modalities exist and how they vary for different microsurgical approaches in NBPP. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was conducted to include articles about upper trunk obstetric brachial plexus nerve microsurgery in pediatric patients that made mention of rehabilitation protocols. The aims of rehabilitation modalities varied and were grouped: "passive" movement to prevent joint contracture or stiffness, "active" or task-oriented movement to improve motor function, or "providing initial motor recovery". Surgical approach was described as either exploration of the brachial plexus (EBP) or nerve transfer without root exploration (NTwoRE). Technique was categorized into transfers and non-transfers. RESULTS Thirty-six full-text articles were included. Initiation of rehabilitation was 22.26 days post-surgery. Twenty-eight studies were EBP, and six were NTwoRE. Of studies classifiable by aims, nine were "passive", nine were "active", and five were "providing initial motor recovery". Only 27.7% of EBP studies mentioned active therapy, while 75.0% of NTwoRE studies mentioned active therapy. The average age of patients in the EBP procedure category was 7.70 months, and NTwoRE was 17.76 months. Within transfers, the spinal accessory to suprascapular group was more likely to describe an active shoulder exercise therapy, whereas contralateral C7 group was more likely to describe "initial motor recovery", especially through the use of electrostimulation. All articles on electrostimulation recommended 15-20-minute daily treatment. CONCLUSION Information on rehabilitation is limited post-nerve surgery in NBPP. However, when mentioned, the aims of these therapies vary with respect to surgical approach and technique. The type of therapy to employ may be a multifaceted decision, involving factors such as patient age, initial deformity, and goals of the care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv Mendiratta
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Michael F Levidy
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alice Chu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Aleksandra McGrath
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Misra S, Takagi T, Yamaguchi S, Anami Y, Takayama S. Intercostal nerve transfer in management of biceps and triceps co-contraction in brachial plexus birth palsy. Microsurgery 2024; 44:e31155. [PMID: 38376257 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) is often caused by traction during birth. In some cases, reinnervation occurs during spontaneous recovery and it causes involuntary co-contraction between antagonistic muscles. When it comes up between the biceps and triceps muscles, smooth active motion of the elbow joint is impaired. We are presenting outcomes of intercostal nerve (ICN) to radial nerve transfer to minimize elbow motion abnormality due to co-contraction. METHODS We present five cases (two males and three females) of biceps and triceps co-contraction in BPBP patients treated from 2005 to 2018. The mean age at surgery was 9.36 years (range, 4.8-16.4 years). They were treated by ICNs transfer to motor branch of the radial nerve to the triceps muscle. Preoperative electromyography was done in all cases to confirm biceps and triceps co-contraction and to assess the contractile status of both muscles. A 10-s flexion extension test was done pre and postoperatively to assess the efficacy of our procedure. RESULTS The postop course was uneventful. No donor site morbidity or respiratory complications were recorded in any patient. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 83.9 months (range, 53.6-135.5 months). At the final follow-up, elbow flexion was M4 in the Medical Research Council (MRC) grading scale in all five patients and elbow extension was graded M4 or M4- in all five patients. There was significant increase in the 10 s flexion extension test results delineating the effectiveness of the procedure. CONCLUSIONS ICNs transfer to motor branch of the radial nerve to the triceps muscle for management of biceps and triceps co-contraction in BPBP is a good option with minimal morbidity and good success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantani Misra
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiko Takagi
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sakura Yamaguchi
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Anami
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Takayama
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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Muhlestein WE, Chang TNJ, Chang KWC, Lu JCY, Chen PJ, Chung KC, Yang LJS, Brown SH, Chuang DCC. Quantifying Patient-Initiated Upper Extremity Movement After Surgical Reconstruction for Adult Pan-Brachial Plexus Injury. Neurosurgery 2024; 94:552-558. [PMID: 37732746 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Determining functional recovery in adult patients with traumatic pan-brachial plexus injury (pBPI) is hampered by the fact that most outcome measures are collected in the clinical setting and may not reflect arm use in the real world. This study's objectives were to demonstrate the feasibility of using wearable motion sensor technology to quantify spontaneous arm movement in adult patients with pBPI after surgical reconstruction and report the time and intensity with which the affected arm was used. METHODS Twenty-nine patients with pBPI who underwent surgical reconstruction at least 2 years prior were included in this study. Study participants wore an accelerometer on bilateral arms for 7 days. The vector time (VT) and magnitude with which each arm moved were collected and divided by the same values collected from the uninjured arm to generate a ratio (VT and vector magnitude [VM], respectively) to quantify differences between the arms. Correlations between VT, VM, and patient demographic and physician-elicited clinical measures were calculated. Patients were enrolled at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taiwan, and data analysis was performed at the University of Michigan. RESULTS Twelve patients had pan-avulsion injuries, and 17 patients had C5 rupture with C6-T1 avulsion injuries. All underwent nerve reconstruction with contralateral C7 or ipsilateral C5 nerve roots as donors. At mean 7.3 years after surgery, the mean VT ratio was 0.54 ± 0.13 and the mean VM ratio was 0.30 ± 0.13. Both VT and VM ratios were significantly correlated with patient employment and movements at the elbow and forearm. CONCLUSION Wearable motion detection technology can capture spontaneous, real-world movements of the arm in patients who have undergone surgical reconstruction for pBPI. Despite severe injuries, these patients are able to use their affected arm 50% of the time and with 30% of the intensity of their unaffected arm, which is positively correlated with return to work after injury. These data support the use of surgical reconstruction for pBPI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tommy Nai-Jen Chang
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and University, Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Kate W-C Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | - Johnny Chuieng-Yi Lu
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and University, Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ju Chen
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and University, Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Kevin C Chung
- Section of Plastic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | - Lynda J-S Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | - Susan H Brown
- Department of Movement Science, School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | - David Chwei-Chin Chuang
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and University, Taipei , Taiwan
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Kahn LC, Stonner MM, Dy CJ. Key Considerations for Nerve Transfer Rehabilitation After Surgical Reconstruction for Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injuries. J Hand Surg Am 2024; 49:160-168. [PMID: 37999701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Nerve transfer surgery is commonly used to treat patients with brachial plexus injuries. However, guidelines on postoperative rehabilitation are not clearly established. Nerve transfers require the patient to relearn how to recruit newly innervated muscle(s), which may not occur naturally or intuitively. Supervised therapy is a valuable resource to guide patients through their lengthy recovery (often >12 months) because target muscle strength is both obtained and functionally used in daily life. This article highlights 10 key principles that provide the foundation for rehabilitation following nerve transfer surgery after a brachial plexus injury. Due to the shortcomings of the current evidence base for nerve transfer rehabilitation, we have included our anecdotal experience to augment the existing literature. It is important to have a collaborative surgeon-therapist relationship to communicate regarding operative details, expected timelines for reinnervation, patient needs, and realistic expectations. We provide examples of how to tailor the exercise program to synergistically recruit both the donor and target muscle action, including how to appropriately advance exercises based on the current level of nerve return. We also discuss the role that fatigue plays in denervated muscle and how fatigue may affect the exercise demands placed on the target muscle during specific stages of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna C Kahn
- Milliken Hand Rehabilitation Center, Program in Occupational Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Macyn M Stonner
- Milliken Hand Rehabilitation Center, Program in Occupational Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Christopher J Dy
- Division of Hand and Microsurgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
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12
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Simão DT, Heise CO, Rodrigues JC, Yamauti LS, Villegas RI, Cho AB, Mattar Junior R. Functional and morphological evaluation of the trapezius muscle after spinal accessory nerve transfer to brachial plexus nerves. Microsurgery 2024; 44:e31152. [PMID: 38363113 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The main innervation of the trapezius muscle is provided by the spinal accessory nerve. Several studies describe the contributions of cervical plexus roots to the trapezius muscle innervation, either directly or through connections with the spinal accessory nerve. There is no adequate understanding of how the trapezius muscle is affected after using the spinal accessory nerve in nerve transfer procedures with the usual technique, preserving at least 1 branch for the upper trapezius. METHODS We evaluated 20 patients with sequelae of traumatic brachial plexus injury who underwent surgical procedures for brachial plexus repair or free muscle transfer, which included the spinal accessory nerve transfer technique and were followed for a minimum of 1 year. The three portions trapezius muscle were evaluated by physical examination, magnetic resonance imaging (analysis of fatty degeneration) and electromyography. RESULTS In all evaluation methods, the middle and lower portions of the trapezius muscle showed more significant morphological and/or functional impairment than the upper portion, in most cases. There was a statistically significant difference in all the complementary exams results, between the affected side (with sacrifice of the nerve) versus the normal side, in the middle and lower portions of the trapezius muscle. CONCLUSIONS Physical examination alone is not sufficient to determine the residual functionality of the trapezius muscle. Magnetic resonance imaging and electromyography are useful tools to assess both morphological involvement of the trapezius muscle and nerve conduction impairment of the trapezius muscle, respectively. The results suggest that the middle and lower portions of the trapezius muscle are affected by previous SAN transfer and should be considered with caution for further muscle transfer procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Tiemi Simão
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos O Heise
- Division of Neurology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João C Rodrigues
- Department of Imaging Diagnostic, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
- Radiology Department, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas S Yamauti
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Robin I Villegas
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alvaro B Cho
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Coordinator of the Hand Surgery and Microsurgery Fellowship Program, ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Rames Mattar Junior
- Division of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery, Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, "Hospital das Clínicas" of the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Lee YH, Lu JCY, Wong A, Chang TNJ, Chuang DCC. The Evolution of the Reconstructive Strategy for Elbow Flexion for Acute C5, C6 Brachial Plexus Injuries over Two Decades. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024; 40:139-144. [PMID: 37137341 DOI: 10.1055/a-2085-7661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the course of the past two decades, improved outcomes following brachial plexus reconstruction have been attributed to newer nerve transfer techniques. However, key factors aside from surgical techniques have brought improved consistency to elbow flexion techniques in the latter decade. METHODS One-hundred seventeen patients who underwent brachial plexus reconstruction from 1996 to 2006 were compared with 120 patients from 2007 to 2017. All patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively to assess the recovery time and of elbow flexion strength. RESULTS In the first decade, nerve reconstruction methods included proximal nerve grafting, intercostal nerve transfer, and Oberlin-I transfer. In the second decade, newer methods such as double fascicular transfer and ipsilateral C7 division transfer to the anterior division of upper trunk were introduced. About 78.6% of the first decade group versus 87.5% of the second decade group were able to reach M3 flexion strength (p = 0.04), with shorter time recovery to reach M3 in the 2nd decade. About 59.8% of the first decade group versus 65.0% of the second decade group were able to reach M4 (p = 0.28), but no significant difference in time of recovery. In both groups, the double fascicular nerve transfer had the highest impact when introduced in the second decade. More precise magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques helped to diagnose the level of injury, the roots involved and evaluate the health of the donor nerves in preparation for intraplexus transfer. CONCLUSION In addition to modified techniques in nerve transfers, (1) MRI-assisted evaluation and surgical exploration of the roots with (2) more judicious choice of donor nerves for primary nerve transfer were factors that ensured reliable and outcomes in the second decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hsuan Lee
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung University, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Johnny Chuieng-Yi Lu
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung University, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Alvin Wong
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Tommy Nai-Jen Chang
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung University, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - David Chwei-Chin Chuang
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung University, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Levaro F, Hill EJR, Bertelli JA. A cut throat: a case of C5-C8 brachial plexus root transection providing evidence of T1 innervation of thumb and finger extensors. Br J Neurosurg 2024; 38:128-130. [PMID: 36062588 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2022.2118233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The T1 nerve root is not routinely thought of as innervating the extensors of the thumb and fingers. Work by Bertelli and Ghizoni proposed that the pattern of brachial plexus paralysis with intact hand function and thumb and finger extensors traditionally attributed to C5/6/7 root injury is in fact a C5/6/7/8 injury, with only T1 remaining intact - a 'T1 hand'. This case presents a 19-year-old male who was stabbed in the neck; exploratory surgery determined complete transection of the brachial plexus, with only the T1 nerve root remaining intact. Clinical examination demonstrated grade M4 pronation (with pronator quadratus), wrist extension (with extensor carpi ulnaris), thumb and finger extension (with extensor policis longus and brevis, extensor digitorum communis and extensor index proprius), wrist flexion (with palmaris longus), finger flexion (with flexor digitorum superficialis and profundus), thumb flexion (with flexor policis longus), and thenar and hypothenar muscles. Extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis, flexor carpi radialis and flexor carpi ulnaris were paralyzed. Triceps scored M2. This case provides unequivocal evidence that the T1 root provides significant innervation to the extrinsic thumb and finger extensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Levaro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Elspeth Jane Rose Hill
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Governador Celso Ramos Hospital, Florianópolis, Brazil
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Harris Manchester College, Oxford University, Oxford, England
| | - Jayme Augusto Bertelli
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Governador Celso Ramos Hospital, Florianópolis, Brazil
- Center of Biological and Health Sciences, Department of Neurosurgery, University of the South of Santa Catarina (Unisul), Tubarão, Brazil
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Joana de Gusmão Children's Hospital, Florianópolis, Brazil
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15
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Schäfer B, Beier JP, Bahm J. [Nerve Transfers in Children with Non-traumatic Amyoplasia]. HANDCHIR MIKROCHIR P 2024; 56:55-64. [PMID: 38508206 DOI: 10.1055/a-2240-4781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of obstetric brachial plexus palsy through primary reconstruction and nerve transfers has been established in the past decades. In the case of non-traumatic diseases that lead to flaccid paralysis and the inability to move the extremities, such as transverse myelitis (TM) or arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), which can have a wide variety of causes, the focus has been on rehabilitative therapy so far, while surgical interventions have been used to a lesser extent, e. g., in the form of osteotomies or muscle transfers. Our aim is to establish nerve transfers as a surgical option to improve mobility in non-traumatic amyoplasia. PATIENTS This work presents the needs-adapted treatment of a total of 23 patients (aged 4 months to 64 months, 18 with AMC and 5 with TM) using nerve transfers on the upper extremity. RESULTS We were able to show that early nerve transfers in the upper extremity enabled the reanimation of muscles in both AMC and TM. CONCLUSION This work shows that the treatment of non-traumatic amyoplasia in children with selective nerve grafts is a successful method. Nerve transfers allow patients to gain or regain important functions for managing independent everyday life. The surgical methods have been established in the treatment of traumatic nerve injuries. They are well-known and can be carried out safely. We believe that this is an important treatment option for paediatric patients with paralysis associated with TM or AMC, which should also be known to the treating physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Schäfer
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery - Burn Center, Division for Plexus Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery - Burn Center, Division for Plexus Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - Justus P Beier
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery - Burn Center, Division for Plexus Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg Bahm
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery - Burn Center, Division for Plexus Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery - Burn Center, Division for Plexus Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
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16
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Li YW, Hsueh YH, Tu YY, Tu YK. Surgical reconstructions for adult brachial plexus injuries. Part II: Treatments for total arm type. Injury 2024; 55:111012. [PMID: 38041925 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.111012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Brachial plexus injuries (BPI) contribute not only to physical dysfunction but also to socioeconomic aspects and psychological disability. Patients with total arm-type BPI will lose not only the shoulder and elbow function but also the hand function, making reconstruction particularly challenging. Reconstructive procedures commonly include nerve repair, grafting, neurotization (nerve transfer), tendon transfer and free functional muscle transfer (FFMT). Although it is difficult to achieve prehensile hand function, most of patients with total arm-type BPI can be treated with satisfied outcomes. In addition to surgical techniques, comprehensive rehabilitation is another important factor for successful outcomes, and efficient communication can help to boost patient morale and eliminate uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Wei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Huan Hsueh
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Yi Tu
- College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Kun Tu
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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17
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Socolovsky M, di Masi G, Bonilla G, Lovaglio A, Battaglia D, Rosler R, Malessy M. Brain plasticity in neonatal brachial plexus palsies: quantification and comparison with adults' brachial plexus injuries. Childs Nerv Syst 2024; 40:479-486. [PMID: 37436472 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06072-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare two populations of brachial plexus palsies, one neonatal (NBPP) and the other traumatic (NNBPP) who underwent different nerve transfers, using the plasticity grading scale (PGS) for detecting differences in brain plasticity between both groups. METHODS To be included, all patients had to have undergone a nerve transfer as the unique procedure to recover one lost function. The primary outcome was the PGS score. We also assessed patient compliance to rehabilitation using the rehabilitation quality scale (RQS). Statistical analysis of all variables was performed. A p ≤ 0.050 set as criterion for statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 153 NNBPP patients and 35 NBPP babies (with 38 nerve transfers) met the inclusion criteria. The mean age at surgery of the NBPP group was 9 months (SD 5.42, range 4 to 23 months). The mean age of NNBPP patients was 22 years (SD 12 years, range 3 to 69). They were operated around sixth months after the trauma. All transfers performed in NBPP patients had a maximum PGS score of 4. This was not the case for the NNBPP population that reached a PGS score of 4 in approximately 20% of the cases. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The RQS was not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSION We found that babies with NBPP have a significantly greater capacity for plastic rewiring than adults with NNBPP. The brain in the very young patient can process the changes induced by the peripheral nerve transfer better than in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Socolovsky
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Program, Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, La Pampa 1175 Torre 2 5A, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Unit, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Torre 2 5A, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Gilda di Masi
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Program, Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, La Pampa 1175 Torre 2 5A, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Unit, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Torre 2 5A, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gonzalo Bonilla
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Program, Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, La Pampa 1175 Torre 2 5A, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Unit, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Torre 2 5A, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Lovaglio
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Program, Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, La Pampa 1175 Torre 2 5A, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Unit, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Torre 2 5A, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Danilo Battaglia
- Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgery Program, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Roberto Rosler
- Department of Neurology, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martijn Malessy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Leiden School of Medicine, Leiden, Holland
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18
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Gong W, Jia Y, Hao J, Zhao R, Chen D, Zheng M. Diagnosis of obstetric brachial plexus injury in a 2-year-old girl using high‑frequency ultrasonography. Pediatr Radiol 2024; 54:362-366. [PMID: 38153539 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-023-05835-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
We describe an unusual case of infant obstetric brachial plexus injury located in the cervical (C)5-C6 brachial plexus nerve, which was preoperatively diagnosed using high-frequency ultrasonography (US) at 2 years of age. The girl was diagnosed with a right clavicular fracture because of shoulder dystocia. She had been showing movement limitations of her entire right upper limb after fracture healing and was then referred to our hospital at 2 years of age. High-frequency US showed that the roots of the right brachial plexus ran continuously, but the diameter of C6 was thinner on the affected side than on the contralateral side (right 0.12 cm vs. left 0.20 cm). A traumatic neuroma had formed at the upper trunk, which was thicker (diameter: right 0.35 cm vs. left 0.23 cm; cross-sectional area: right 0.65 cm2 vs. left 0.31 cm2) at the level of the supraclavicular fossa. Intraoperative findings were consistent with ultrasound findings. Postoperative pathology confirmed brachial plexus traumatic neuroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Gong
- Department of Ultrasound, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yunan Jia
- Department of Ultrasound, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jikun Hao
- Department of Ultrasound, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Hand-Surgery, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dingzhang Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Minjuan Zheng
- Department of Ultrasound, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
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19
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Bahm J, Beier JP, Schäfer B. [Contralateral C7 Nerve Transfer]. HANDCHIR MIKROCHIR P 2024; 56:74-83. [PMID: 38408481 DOI: 10.1055/a-2246-1704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Complex brachial plexus injuries with multiple or complete root avulsions make intraplexic reconstruction impossible in some cases. Such cases necessitate the use of extraplexic nerve donors such as the spinal accessory nerve or intercostal nerves. The contralateral C7 root represents a donor with a high axon count and can be used as an axon source in such cases. We summarise current indications, surgical technique and functional results after a contralateral C7 transfer in cases of brachial plexus injury, describing some of our own cases and including a selective literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg Bahm
- Klinik für Plastische Chirurgie, Hand- und Verbrennungschirurgie, Sektion für Plexuschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Justus P Beier
- Klinik für Plastische Chirurgie, Hand- und Verbrennungschirurgie, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Benedikt Schäfer
- Klinik für Plastische Chirurgie, Hand- und Verbrennungschirurgie, Sektion für Plexuschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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20
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Iwabuchi S, Hara Y, Yoshii Y, Yamazaki M. A favourable suture method for size-mismatched nerve transfer: a case series of intercostal-to-musculocutaneous nerve transfer for brachial plexus injury. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2024; 49:267-269. [PMID: 37747710 DOI: 10.1177/17531934231201915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
We review a nerve suture method for size-mismatched nerve transfers and report a case series involving patients with brachial plexus injury who underwent intercostal-to-musculocutaneous nerve transfer using this method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Iwabuchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuki Hara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Yoshii
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Ami, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masashi Yamazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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21
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Yang Y, Li T, Deng Y, Wang J, Li Y, Liu H, Wang W. Dynamic alternations of interhemispheric functional connectivity in brachial plexus avulsion injury patients with nerve transfer: a resting state fMRI study. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad415. [PMID: 37955665 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Brachial plexus avulsion injury (BPAI) is a severe peripheral nerve injury that leads to functional reorganization of the brain. However, the interhemispheric coordination following contralateral cervical 7 nerve transfer remains unclear. In this study, 69 BPAI patients underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging examination to assess the voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC), which reveals the interhemispheric functional connection. The motor function of the affected upper extremity was measured using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) scale. The VMHC analysis showed significant differences between the bilateral precentral gyrus, supplementary motor area (SMA), middle frontal gyrus (MFG), and insula. Compared to the preoperative group, the VMHC of the precentral gyrus significantly increased in the postoperative short-term group (PO-ST group) but decreased in the postoperative long-term group (PO-LT group). Additionally, the VMHC of the SMA significantly increased in the PO-LT group. Furthermore, the VMHC of the precentral gyrus in the PO-ST group and the SMA in the PO-LT group were positively correlated with the FMA-UE scores. These findings highlight a positive relationship between motor recovery and increased functional connectivity of precentral gyrus and SMA, which provide possible therapeutic targets for future neuromodulation interventions to improve rehabilitation outcomes for BPAI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Tie Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yan Deng
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Junlong Wang
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yajie Li
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, No. 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hanqiu Liu
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai 200040, China
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22
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Şalvız EA, Bingül ES, Savran Karadeniz M. Serratus anterior plane block analgesia for surgical restoration of brachial plexus birth palsy: A different approach for acute pain management. Agri 2024; 36:80-82. [PMID: 38239115 DOI: 10.14744/agri.2023.59375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Emine Aysu Şalvız
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emre Sertaç Bingül
- Department of Anaesthesia and Reanimation, İstanbul University İstanbul Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Meltem Savran Karadeniz
- Department of Anaesthesia and Reanimation, İstanbul University İstanbul Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Türkiye
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23
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Liu DS, Miller P, Rothenberg A, Vuillermin C, Waters PM, Bauer AS. Early Elbow Flexion Contracture Predicts Shoulder Contracture in Infants with Brachial Plexus Birth Injury. J Pediatr 2024; 264:113739. [PMID: 37717907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if children who present with an elbow flexion contracture (EFC) from brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI) are more likely to develop shoulder contracture and undergo surgical treatment. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review of children <2 years of age with BPBI who presented to a single children's hospital from 1993 to 2020. Age, elbow and shoulder range of motion (ROM), imaging measurements, and surgical treatment and outcome were analyzed. Patients with an EFC of ≥10° were included in the study sample. Data from 2445 clinical evaluations (1190 patients) were assessed. The final study cohort included 72 EFC cases matched with 230 non-EFC controls. Three patients lacked sufficient follow-up data. RESULTS There were 299 included patients who showed no differences between study and control groups with respect to age, sex, race, ethnicity, or functional score. Patients with EFC had 12° less shoulder range of motion (95% CI, 5°-20°; P < .001) and had 2.5 times the odds of shoulder contracture (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.3-4.7; P = .006). For each additional 5° of EFC, the odds of shoulder contracture increased by 50% (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2-1.8; P < .001) and odds of shoulder procedure increased by 62% (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.04-2.53; P = .03). Sensitivity of EFC for predicting shoulder contracture was 49% and specificity was 82%. CONCLUSIONS In patients with BPBI <2 years of age, presence of EFC can be used as a screening tool in identifying shoulder contractures that may otherwise be difficult to assess. Prompt referral should be arranged for evaluation at a BPBI specialty clinic, because delayed presentation risks worsening shoulder contracture and potentially more complicated surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Patricia Miller
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Anna Rothenberg
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Carley Vuillermin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Peter M Waters
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | - Andrea S Bauer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.
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24
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Tay JQ. Re: The versatility of the double fascicular transfer in reconstruction of elbow flexion paralysis: Intermediate term follow-up and patient-related outcome measures. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2023; 87:403-404. [PMID: 37939644 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.10.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Qin Tay
- Plastic, Burns and Reconstructive Surgery Department, Salisbury District Hospital, Thames Valley/Wessex Deanery, UK.
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Pai G M, Bhat AK, Acharya AM. A Novel Method of Spinal Accessory Nerve Banking Using Silicone Catheter for Functioning Free Muscle Transfer. Tech Hand Up Extrem Surg 2023; 27:210-213. [PMID: 37357693 DOI: 10.1097/bth.0000000000000441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
In secondary brachial plexus reconstruction, exploring an area that has already been operated on is challenging and time-consuming for a surgeon, especially in centers with a single-team approach. Due to their inertness and lack of adverse effects, silicone Foley catheters were used successfully during the reconstruction of flexor tendons. Based on the concept, we have achieved an acceptable functional outcome by banking the spinal accessory nerve in a silicon catheter for gracilis reanimation, which permits smooth dissection, maintains the length, and shortens the operating time for subsequent reconstruction. Level of Evidence: Level V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithun Pai G
- Department of Hand Surgery, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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26
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Agrawal A, Kapoor A, Singh V, Rao N, Chattopadhyay D. A Randomised Control Trial Comparing the Outcomes of Anterior with Posterior Approach for Transfer of Spinal Accessory Nerve to Suprascapular Nerve in Brachial Plexus Injuries. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2023; 28:699-707. [PMID: 38073408 DOI: 10.1142/s2424835523500741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Background: In brachial plexus surgery, a key focus is restoring shoulder abduction through spinal accessory nerve (SAN) to suprascapular nerve (SSN) transfer using either the anterior or posterior approach. However, no published randomised control trials have directly compared their outcomes to date. Therefore, our study aims to assess motor outcomes for both approaches. Methods: This study comprises two groups of patients. Group A: anterior approach (29 patients), Group B: Posterior approach (29 patients). Patients were allocated to both groups using selective randomisation with the sealed envelope technique. Functional outcome was assessed by grading the muscle power of shoulder abductors using the British Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. Results: Five patients who were operated on by posterior approach had ossified superior transverse suprascapular ligament. In these cases, the approach was changed from posterior to anterior to avoid injury to SSN. Due to this reason, the treatment analysis was done considering the distribution as: Group A: 34, Group B: 24. The mean duration of appearance of first clinical sign of shoulder abduction was 8.16 months in Group A, whereas in Group B, it was 6.85 months, which was significantly earlier (p < 0.05). At the 18-month follow-up, both intention-to-treat analysis and as-treated analysis were performed, and there was no statistical difference in the outcome of shoulder abduction between the approaches for SAN to SSN nerve transfer. Conclusions: Our study found no significant difference in the restoration of shoulder abduction power between both approaches; therefore, either approach can be used for patients presenting early for surgery. Since the appearance of first clinical sign of recovery is earlier in posterior approach, therefore, it can be preferred for cases presenting at a later stage. Also, the choice of approach is guided on a case to case basis depending on clavicular fractures and surgeon preference to the approach. Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Agrawal
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Akshay Kapoor
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Neeraj Rao
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Debarati Chattopadhyay
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
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Kawano K, Hara Y, Hoshikawa S, Tajiri Y. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Caused by a Primary Tumour in the Brachial Plexus. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2023; 28:717-721. [PMID: 38073406 DOI: 10.1142/s2424835523720219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) caused by a primary brachial plexus tumour is very rare. A male politician in his 40s presented with numbness, left limb pain and positive Wright and Roos test results. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a tumour located just below the clavicle, compressing the subclavian artery during left arm elevation. Despite concerns regarding postoperative nerve deficits, surgery was performed because of worsening symptoms during the election campaigns. The pathology report revealed a schwannoma. Few reports have described TOS caused by primary tumours of the brachial plexus. While the decision to perform surgery for primary tumours of the brachial plexus requires careful consideration, surgery may be indicated in cases where the tumour location causes such symptoms. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Kawano
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukinori Hara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Hoshikawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Tajiri
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Socolovsky M, Lovaglio A, Bonilla G, Masi GD, Barillaro K, Malessy M. Brain plasticity and age after restoring elbow flexion with distal nerve transfers in neonatal brachial plexus palsy and nonneonatal traumatic brachial plexus injury using the plasticity grading scale. J Neurosurg 2023; 139:1568-1575. [PMID: 37410633 DOI: 10.3171/2023.5.jns23673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ulnar and/or median nerve fascicle to musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) transfers are used to restore elbow flexion following severe neonatal and nonneonatal brachial plexus injuries (BPIs). Restoring volitional control requires plastic changes in the brain. To date, whether the potential for plasticity is influenced by a patient's age remains unknown. METHODS Patients who had presented with a traumatic upper (C5-6 or C5-7) BPI were divided into two groups: neonatal brachial plexus palsies (NBPPs) and nonneonatal traumatic BPIs (NNBPIs). Both groups underwent ulnar or median nerve transfers to the MCN for elbow flexion restoration between January 2002 and July 2020. Only those who attained a British Medical Research Council strength rating of 4 were reviewed. The primary comparison between the two groups was the plasticity grading scale (PGS) score to determine the level of independence of elbow flexion (target) from forearm motor muscle movement (donors). The authors also assessed patient compliance with rehabilitation using a 4-point Rehabilitation Quality Scale. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify intergroup differences. RESULTS In total, 66 patients were analyzed: 22 with NBPP (mean age at surgery 10 months) and 44 with NNBPI (age range at surgery 3-67 years, mean 30.2 years; mean time to surgery 7 months, p < 0.001). All NBPP patients obtained a PGS grade of 4 at the final follow-up versus just 47.7% of NNBPI patients (mean 3.27, p < 0.001). On ordinal regression analysis, after nature of the injury was excluded because of excessive collinearity with age, age was the only significant predictor of plasticity (β = -0.063, p = 0.003). Median rehabilitation compliance scores were not statistically different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The extent of plastic changes that occur for patients to regain volitional control over elbow flexion after upper arm distal nerve transfers following BPI is influenced by patient age, with complete plastic rewiring more likely in younger patients and virtually ubiquitous in infants. Older patients should be informed that elbow flexion after an ulnar or median nerve fascicle transfer to the MCN might require simultaneous wrist flexion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Socolovsky
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and
| | - Ana Lovaglio
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and
| | - Gonzalo Bonilla
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and
| | - Gilda Di Masi
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and
| | - Karina Barillaro
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and
| | - Martijn Malessy
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, University of Leiden School of Medicine, Leiden, Holland
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Muhlestein WE, Chang KWC, Justice D, Johnson S, Brown S, Popadich M. Developing interdisciplinary research teams in neurosurgery: key elements to success in brachial plexus and peripheral nerve surgery. J Neurosurg 2023; 139:1552-1559. [PMID: 37178028 DOI: 10.3171/2023.4.jns222254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The highest-impact medical literature is increasingly produced by interdisciplinary teams. The field of neurosurgery, which involves complex pathologies and recoveries, is particularly amenable to interdisciplinary research approaches. However, research in the medical context regarding the characteristics of effective teams, as well as how to develop and maintain interdisciplinary teams, remains lacking. Here, the authors used the business literature to identify the characteristics of effective teams. They then used the University of Michigan Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Program, founded under the leadership of the late Dr. Lynda Yang, as a case study for how these principles can be applied to build and operationalize a successful interdisciplinary team. They suggest that these same techniques can be used to create interdisciplinary research groups in other areas of neurosurgery.
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Caron E, Gienapp AJ, Files H, Ridley-Pryor T. Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: A Single-Center Study. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:1489-1496. [PMID: 36964689 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231163698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Infants can sustain traction injury to brachial plexus nerves during birth, called brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI). While spontaneous recovery is possible, upper extremity weakness can linger. We report our experience at a brachial plexus clinic from a retrospective chart review of infants with BPBI from September 2017 to September 2019. We determined Narakas Classification (NC) and Active Movement Scale (AMS) at predetermined follow-up points. Of 15 patients, 8 presented with NC-I, 5 with NC-II, and 2 with NC-III without Horner's syndrome. By 7 months, 3 had spontaneous recovery, and 4 achieved all and another 4 achieved most AMS5-7 scores. Eleven patients undergoing surgery had little-to-no improvement of shoulder abduction and shoulder external rotation AMS categories by 6 months. Our small sample size prevents us from making definitive conclusions but gave beneficial insight into our clinic barriers to follow-up, data collection, and collaboration with physical and occupational therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Caron
- Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- University of Tennessee Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists, Memphis, TN, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Andrew J Gienapp
- Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Helen Files
- Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Rhodes College, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Tracee Ridley-Pryor
- Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- University of Tennessee Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists, Memphis, TN, USA
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Jakeman M, Borschel GH, Sharma P. Donor complications of contralateral C7 nerve transfer in Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: a systematic review. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:3515-3520. [PMID: 37368067 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06047-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Contralateral C7 (CC7) nerve transfer is a reconstructive option in the upper limb when there are limited donor options. Promising results have been reported in the adult population but its role in Brachial Plexus Birth Injury (BPBI) is unclear. A major concern with this technique is the potential impact on the contralateral, unaffected limb. Our aim was to review the available literature on the use of this transfer in BPBI, to determine the incidence of short- and long-term deficits at the donor site. METHODS The relevant literature was identified from searches of Embase, Ovid Emcare and Ovid MEDLINE, for combinations of terms relating to CC7 nerve transfer and BPBI. RESULTS Seventy-five patients were included in this review, from the eight papers that were eligible for inclusion, from a total of 16 papers identified. Patient age ranged from three to 93 months and the shortest follow-up period was six months. Post-operative motor deficits at the donor site included reduced range of shoulder abduction; triceps weakness; and phrenic nerve palsy. All motor deficits recovered within six months. The only sensory deficit reported was reduced sensation in the median nerve distribution which, in all cases, resolved within four weeks. Finally, synchronous donor limb motion and sensation were reported in 46.6% of patients. CONCLUSION CC7 nerve transfer in BPBI appears to have few long-term donor limb complications. Sensory and motor deficits are reportedly transient. The impact of synchronous motion and sensation on upper limb function in this patient cohort is not yet known.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jakeman
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, East Prescot Road, Liverpool, L12 2AP, Merseyside, UK.
| | - G H Borschel
- Riley Hospital for Children, 705 Riley Hospital Dr, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - P Sharma
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, East Prescot Road, Liverpool, L12 2AP, Merseyside, UK
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Porcellini G, Montemagno M, Manzini C, Fiumana G, Giorgini A, Micheloni G, Tarallo L. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty in obstetric brachial plexus injury: our experience with shoulder motion analysis. J Orthop Traumatol 2023; 24:59. [PMID: 37947898 PMCID: PMC10638338 DOI: 10.1186/s10195-023-00736-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstetric brachial plexus injury (OBPI) is a weakening or paralysis of the upper arm caused by brachial plexus injury followed by a muscle paralysis with severe repercussions on the movement of the shoulder joint following a progressive glenohumeral joint deformity. This case series analyzes the clinical and radiological outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in OBPI patients with a follow-up of 2 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS OBPI patients with secondary end-stage glenohumeral arthritis were enrolled in the study and they were treated with RSA. Patient demographics and clinical outcomes [Range of Motion (ROM), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS)] were evaluated. A novel Shoulder motion analysis was carried out to investigate specific movement patterns of scapulothoracic movements in these patients. This study is a prospective cohort study. RESULTS Four Patients (M: F = 1:3) were enrolled in the study, the mean age was 49.3 years (+ 2.75), the mean OSS (Oxford Shoulder Score) decreased from 48.8 (± 2.5) preoperatively to 18.30 (± 2.78), the mean VAS (Visual Analog Scale) decreased from 7.25 (± 0.5) to 1.7 (± 0.3) in the follow up (∆% relative pain reduction:- 76.5%), Shoulder ROM obtained an improvement (p < 0.05) except for abduction and external rotation. The average follow-up time was 26.3 months (+- 4.5). Shoulder motion analysis showed a complete loss of the scapular tilting above 90 degrees of flexion compared to the typical one of standard RSA with a pattern shifted towards scapular retraction (engaging trapezius and rhomboid muscles) to compensate the loss of the posterior tilting. CONCLUSIONS RSA in OBPI patients demonstrated a significant improvement of pain symptoms and a moderate improvement in daily activities, anyway with a more appreciable quality of life over time even if the marked hypotrophy especially of the posterior shoulder muscles showed some limits in maintaining suspension of the upper limb and a minor external rotation, with an internal rotation attitude during the movements. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, Case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Porcellini
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Marco Montemagno
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Section of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Policlinico-San Marco, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Manzini
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Giorgini
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianmario Micheloni
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarallo
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Li YW, Tu YK, Hsueh YH. Prespinal Versus Conventional Hemicontralateral C7 Nerve Transfer in the Treatment of Total Brachial Plexus Roots Avulsion Injuries: A Retrospective Study With a Minimum Follow-Up Period of 4 Years. J Hand Surg Am 2023; 48:1175.e1-1175.e10. [PMID: 37598323 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Contralateral C7 (CC7)-to-median nerve transfer has been commonly used to restore hand function in brachial plexus injury. To shorten the nerve graft, the prespinal route was described and achieved direct coaptation when combined with humeral shortening osteotomy. The limb was positioned at 0° shoulder abduction and neutral head position. Given our concern about donor-site morbidity when harvesting the whole CC7 nerve and tension across the neurorrhaphy site after mobilization, we aimed to describe our modified prespinal route and compare its outcomes and complications with the conventional hemi-CC7 transfer. METHODS From 2004 to 2014, 39 patients with preganglionic total brachial plexus root avulsion injuries, with a minimum of 4 years of follow-up, were included. Overall, 20 and 19 patients underwent the conventional hemi-CC7-to-median nerve and hemi-CC7-to-lower trunk (LT) transfer through the modified prespinal route, respectively. The modified prespinal route was combined with bilateral clavicle shortening osteotomy to achieve direct coaptation to the LT at 45° shoulder abduction. RESULTS The modified prespinal route showed the median period to achieve ≥M3 hand grip assessed in clinical follow-up was shorter (26.5 months vs 45.5 months), and a higher proportion of patients achieved ≥M3 hand grip recovery (63% vs 30%). One patient experienced symptomatic phrenic nerve injury; however, the hemidiaphragm fully recovered after 6 months. The long-term donor-site complication rate was 2.6%, including one sensory abnormality, and no permanent donor-site weakness after hemi-CC7 harvesting was observed. CONCLUSIONS The modified prespinal route combined with clavicle osteotomy allowed direct coaptation to the LT and did not require head immobilization. It may allow a higher proportion of patients to achieve ≥M3 hand grip more quickly than conventional hemi-CC7 transfer. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Wei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Kun Tu
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Huan Hsueh
- Department of Orthopedics, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Pengked K, Laohaprasitiporn P, Monteerarat Y, Limthongthang R, Vathana T. Effect of shorter nerve graft and selective motor branch of recipient nerve on nerve transfer surgery for elbow flexion in patients with brachial plexus injury. J Neurosurg 2023; 139:1405-1411. [PMID: 36905656 DOI: 10.3171/2023.1.jns222836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The spinal accessory nerve (SAN) is commonly used as a donor nerve for reinnervation of elbow flexors in brachial plexus injury (BPI) reconstruction. However, no study has compared the postoperative outcomes between SAN-to-musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) transfer and SAN-to-nerve to biceps (NTB) transfer. Thus, this study aimed to compare the postoperative time to recovery of elbow flexors between the two groups. METHODS A total of 748 patients who underwent surgical treatment for BPI between 1999 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 233 patients were treated with nerve transfer for elbow flexion. Two techniques were used to harvest the recipient nerve: the standard dissection technique and the proximal dissection technique. The postoperative motor power of elbow flexion was assessed every month for 24 months using the Medical Research Council (MRC) grading system. Survival and Cox regression analyses were used to compare the time to recovery (MRC grade ≥ 3) between the two groups. RESULTS Of the 233 patients who underwent nerve transfer surgery, there were 162 patients in the MCN group and 71 patients in the NTB group. At 24 months after surgery, the MCN group had a success rate of 74.1%, and the NTB group had a success rate of 81.7% (p = 0.208). When compared with the MCN group, the NTB group had a significantly shorter median time to recovery (19 months vs 21 months, p = 0.013). Only 11.1% of patients in the MCN group regained MRC grade 4 or 5 motor power 24 months after nerve transfer surgery compared with 39.4% patients in the NTB group (p < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that the SAN-to-NTB transfer in combination with the proximal dissection technique was the only significant factor affecting time to recovery (HR 2.33, 95% CI 1.46-3.72; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS SAN-to-NTB transfer in combination with the proximal dissection technique is the preferred nerve transfer option for restoration of elbow flexion in traumatic pan-plexus palsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanapot Pengked
- 1School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand; and
| | - Panai Laohaprasitiporn
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yuwarat Monteerarat
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Roongsak Limthongthang
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Torpon Vathana
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Lakomkin N, Wu KY, Hébert-Blouin MN, Spinner RJ. Lateral Displacement of the Phrenic Nerve in C5 Tumors. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2023; 25:e246-e250. [PMID: 37707421 DOI: 10.1227/ons.0000000000000854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Nerve sheath tumors of the brachial plexus frequently distort the local anatomy, increasing the difficulty of safe exposure and resection. However, lateral displacement of the phrenic nerve has not been previously described. The purpose of this study was thus to illustrate the abnormal lateral displacement of the phrenic nerve in 2 cases of patients undergoing brachial plexus tumor resection and provide a possible mechanism for this observation. METHODS Two patients underwent surgical resection of clinically progressing C5 schwannomas. During exposure, the phrenic nerve was found to be significantly more superficial and lateral than typical. This structural relationship persisted even after complete resection of the lesion. Both patients did well postoperatively. RESULTS The phrenic nerve traverses along the anterolateral aspect of the anterior scalene. However, in these 2 cases of C5 nerve sheath tumors, the phrenic was found to be significantly more lateral and superficial than usual, draping across the medial aspect of the tumor. We believe that the C5-phrenic communicating branch may act as a functional tether that mobilizes the phrenic nerve laterally as the tumor grows. The mass effect on the anterior scalene by the underlying C5 tumor may further contribute to the anterolateral and superficial displacement of the nerve. CONCLUSION The phrenic nerve may be seen markedly more laterally and superficially displaced in cases of C5 nerve sheath tumors. It is important for surgeons who operate on lesions of the brachial plexus to be aware of this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Lakomkin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kitty Y Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Robert J Spinner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Werner JM, Wlodarczyk J, Seruya M. Diagnostic Accuracy of Manual Muscle Testing to Identify Nerve Transfer Candidates in Children with Acute Flaccid Myelitis. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:1057-1067. [PMID: 36988635 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Manual muscle testing is a mainstay of strength assessment despite not having been compared with intraoperative electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves. METHODS Intraoperative electrical stimulation served as the reference standard in evaluating predictive accuracy of the Active Movement Scale (AMS) and the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. Retrospective consecutive sampling of all patients with AFM who underwent exploration or nerve transfer at a pediatric multidisciplinary brachial plexus and peripheral nerve center from March of 2016 to July of 2020 were included. The nonparametric area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. Optimal cutoff score (Youden J ) and diagnostic accuracy values were reported. The AMS and MRC scale were directly compared for predictive superiority. RESULTS A total of 181 upper extremity nerves (73 donor nerve candidates and 108 recipient nerve candidates) were tested intraoperatively from 40 children (mean age ± SD, 7.9 ± 4.9 years). The scales performed similarly ( P = 0.953) in classifying suitable donor nerves with satisfactory accuracy (AUC AMS , 71.5%; AUC MRC , 70.7%; optimal cutoff, AMS >5 and MRC >2). The scales performed similarly ( P = 0.688) in classifying suitable recipient nerves with good accuracy (AUC AMS , 92.1%; AUC MRC :, 94.9%; optimal cutoff, AMS ≤3 and MRC ≤1). CONCLUSIONS Manual muscle testing is an accurate, noninvasive means of identifying donor and recipient nerves for transfer in children with acute flaccid myelitis. The utility of these results is in minimizing unexpected findings in the operating room and aiding in the development of contingency plans. Further research may extend these findings to test the validity of manual muscle testing as an outcome measure of the success of nerve transfer. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Diagnostic, I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Werner
- From the Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
| | - Jordan Wlodarczyk
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California
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Du T, Ni B, Shu W, Ren Z, Guo S, Zhang X, Zhu H, Hu Y. Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning Following Unresponsive Spinal Cord Stimulation for Post-Traumatic Neuropathic Pain. World Neurosurg 2023; 178:e300-e306. [PMID: 37473865 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning are important therapeutic options for intractable post-traumatic neuropathic pain (PNP). However, surgical choice is controversial due to the need to maximize pain relief and reduce complications. This study aims to retrospectively analyze the effect and complications of DREZ lesioning for patients with PNP who were unresponsive to SCS and provide a surgical reference. METHODS Demographic data and surgical characteristics of patients with PNP who underwent DREZ lesioning after an unresponsive SCS were reviewed. Long-term outcomes including numeric rating scale, global impression of change, and long-term complications were assessed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate pain-free survival. RESULTS Of 19 patients with PNP, 8 had brachial plexus injury (BPI), 7 had spinal cord injury, 2 had cauda equina injury, 1 had intercostal nerve injury, and 1 had lumbosacral plexus injury. All patients were unresponsive or had a recurrence of pain after SCS, with an average pain-relief rate of 9.3%. After DREZ lesioning, the mean numeric rating scale scores significantly decreased from 7.6 ± 1.5 to 1.8 ± 1.7, with an average pain-relief rate of 75.3%. Seven patients (36.8%) experienced worsened neurologic dysfunction at the last follow-up. Patients with BPI had a significantly better outcome than other pathologies (P < 0.001) after DREZ lesioning. CONCLUSIONS DREZ lesioning is an effective alternative procedure to SCS for patients with PNP who have lost limb function. Particularly for those with BPI, DREZ lesioning has shown good efficacy and can be considered a preferred surgical option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Du
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Shu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwei Ren
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Guo
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Zhu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongsheng Hu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Ahmed AS, Roundy R, Graf AR, Suh N, Peljovich AE, Zelenski NA. Volar versus dorsal approach for supinator to posterior interosseous nerve transfer: An anatomical study in cadavers. Microsurgery 2023; 43:597-605. [PMID: 36916232 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Supinator to posterior interosseous nerve (SPIN) transfer allows reconstruction of finger/thumb extension and thumb abduction for low radial nerve palsy, incomplete C6 tetraplegia, and brachial plexus injury affecting C7-T1. No study has compared dorsal versus volar approach to perform SPIN transfer. This comparison is studied in the present work, assessing supinator motor branch length and ability to achieve nerve transfer from either approach. METHODS Ten fresh frozen cadavers were randomly allocated to receive either a dorsal or volar approach to PIN and supinator radial and ulnar branches (RB = radial, UB = ulnar). Supinator head innervation patterns were documented. RB and UB lengths, forearm lengths measured from ulnar styloid to olecranon, visualization of extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) motor nerve without additional dissection, and ability to perform tension-free nerve transfer were assessed. RESULTS Nine of 10 specimens had supinator branches innervating both heads. The ECRB nerve was visualized in all volar but only one dorsal approach. No significant differences in forearm length were found. Volar with elbow extended: mean RB length was 35 ± 7.8 mm and UB was 37.8 ± 9.3 mm. Dorsal with elbow extended: mean RB length was 30 ± 4.1 mm and UB was 38.8 ± 7.3 mm. Dorsal with elbow flexed 90°: RB was 25.6 ± 3.8 mm and UB was 34.8 ± 4.8 mm. No significant differences were found in branch lengths between approaches (dorsal vs. volar UB, p = .339; dorsal vs. volar RB, p = .117). All limbs achieved tension-free coaptation. CONCLUSION Neither approach demonstrated superiority in achieving tension-free nerve transfer. Volar permitted immediate identification of ECRB nerve whereas this was only visualized in one dorsal specimen without additional dissection. Overall, the volar approach allows direct coaptation in elbow extension, mimicking maximal physiologic tension for neurorrhaphy. It simultaneously permits additional procedures for pinch reconstruction via single exposure, circumventing limb/microscope maneuvering, dorsal dissection, and increased operative time. Ultimate choice of approach should depend on surgeon familiarity and potential need for additional simultaneous transfers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil Shahzad Ahmed
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Robert Roundy
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alexander R Graf
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nina Suh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Nicole A Zelenski
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Haas-Lützenberger EM, Hladik MM, Koban KC, Giunta R. [Relevance of Early Structured Diagnosis to Successful Nerve Reconstruction: A Case Report of an Alpine Professional Skier with an Axillary Nerve Injury]. HANDCHIR MIKROCHIR P 2023; 55:376-381. [PMID: 37364605 DOI: 10.1055/a-2055-1642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Among high-speed sports, an increased number of high-speed injuries have been observed in alpine downhill racing. We report the case of a young professional ski racer who sustained a shoulder dislocation with an avulsion of the axillary nerve during a World Cup race. After initial treatment was provided for the shoulder dislocation, the patient was left with abduction weakness and a sensory deficit in the region of the deltoid muscle. She underwent electrophysiological and clinical examinations and visited our centre with delay. We immediately performed surgical treatment with a nerve transfer and nerve transplantation. After only 11 months following her fall, she was able to resume her training program. This case report shows the importance of early diagnostic investigation, a visit to a centre of plastic surgery and the good outcome after surgical treatment in patients with peripheral nerve injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Maria Haas-Lützenberger
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Mortimer M Hladik
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Konstantin Christoph Koban
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Riccardo Giunta
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, München, Germany
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Chen X, Guo J, Zhou Y, Lao J, Zhao X, Rui J. Modified contralateral C7 transfer to restore ulnar nerve function without sacrificing median nerve recovery: an experimental study. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2023; 48:731-737. [PMID: 37203387 DOI: 10.1177/17531934231170103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Contralateral C7 (cC7) transfer is a technique used in patients with total brachial plexus avulsion. An ulnar nerve graft (UNG) is usually used, as intrinsic function is not expected to be restored due to length of reinnervation required. In this study, we attempted to improve intrinsic function recovery by preserving the deep branch of the ulnar nerve (dbUN) and reanimating it with the anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) after cC7 transfer. Fifty-four rats were divided into the following three groups: Group A, traditional cC7 transfer to the median nerve with a UNG; Group B, cC7 transfer preserving and repairing the dbUN with the terminal branch of the AIN; Group C, same as Group B; however, the dbUN was coapted after 1 month with the AIN. At 3, 6 and 9 months postoperatively, the results of electrodiagnostic and histomorphometric examinations of the interosseous muscle were significantly better in Groups B and C, without affecting AIN recovery. In conclusion, the modified cC7 transfer technique can potentially improve intrinsic function recovery without affecting median nerve recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jinding Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yingjie Zhou
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jie Lao
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jing Rui
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction (Fudan University), Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, P. R. China
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Xiao Y, Feng SQ, Luo T, Zan YS, Li L, Shen LQ. Plexiform Schwannoma of Brachial Plexus in Axilla: A Rare Case Report. J Musculoskelet Neuronal Interact 2023; 23:371-376. [PMID: 37654224 PMCID: PMC10483822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The most common tumours in the brachial plexus are benign schwannomas, followed by neurofibromas and malignancies, originating from the peripheral nerve sheath. The clinical manifestations of brachial plexus tumours are variable according to their location, extension, neurological elements involved and pathology. Brachial plexus tumours are rare in the upper extremity, and axillary schwannoma is uncommon. This case reports a 59-year-old woman with a tumour in her left axilla for two years, gradually enlarging with numbness in her left little finger. Microsurgical interfascicular dissection operation was performed to remove the tumour. Νumbness disappeared after the procedure, and no tumour recurrence was observed during the 30-month follow-up. To the best of our knowledge, plexiform schwannoma of the brachial plexus in the axilla has not been reported so far. In this article, such a case is reported, where this tumour was diagnosed by the histopathological examination and confirmed with immunohistochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Xiao
- Trauma Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shu-qing Feng
- Ultrasound Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Trauma Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yong-sheng Zan
- Trauma Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Li Li
- Trauma Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Li-qi Shen
- Trauma Center, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province/The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Zelenski NA, Lu JCY, Chang TNJ, Chuang DCC. Resolving Co-Contraction of the Elbow in Patient with Sequelae of Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy: A Cohort Study. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:472e-475e. [PMID: 36917744 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstetric brachial plexus palsy can cause deformities of the upper extremity in up to 92% of patients. Elbow reconstruction is difficult because co-contraction of the elbow flexor (EF) and elbow extensor (EE) muscles makes the traditional treatment strategy ineffective. The authors propose a novel strategy to minimize the effect of co-contraction, comprising transfer of an EF to the triceps and a staged gracilis muscle transplantation [functioning free muscle transplantation (FFMT)] to augment EF. The authors hypothesize this will lead to improved elbow flexion and extension, as well as decreased elbow flexion contracture. METHODS A single-center retrospective review of patients who received a gracilis FFMT for EF after EF-to-EE transfer was performed. EF/EE strength and range of motion data were collected from the last clinical visit. Patients were excluded if they had fewer than 1.5 years of follow-up. A control group with sequelae of obstetric brachial plexus palsy and nonsurgical treatment was used for comparison. RESULTS Twenty-one patients were included. Average age at muscle transfer was 7.6 ± 5.5 years (range, 3 to 22 years) and at gracilis FFMT was 10.4 ± 6.0 years (range, 5 to 26 years). Average follow-up was 7.3 ± 6.5 years (range, 1.5 to 14.8 years). After EF-to-EE transfer, EE strength increased significantly from Medical Research Council grade 2.2 ± 0.4 to 3.4 ± 0.5 ( P < 0.0001) and EF decreased from 3.2 ± 1.1 to 1.1 ± 1.1 ( P < 0.0001) and recovered to grade 3.3 ± 0.7 after gracilis FFMT. EF contracture was significantly lower compared with that in the nonsurgical cohort ( P = 0.029). CONCLUSION Patients who undergo EF-to-EE transfer followed by gracilis FFMT have equivalent EF strength with significantly improved EE and improved elbow flexion contracture. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Zelenski
- From the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emory University
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang-Gung University
| | - Johnny Chuieng-Yi Lu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang-Gung University
| | - Tommy Nai-Jen Chang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang-Gung University
| | - David Chwei-Chin Chuang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang-Gung University
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Fasce I, Fiaschi P, Bianconi A, Sacco C, Staffa G, Capone C. Long-term functional recovery in C5-C6 avulsions treated with distal nerve transfers. Neurol Res 2023; 45:867-873. [PMID: 34193028 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2021.1942410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients suffering from traction lesions of the brachial plexus, complete C5 and/or C6 root avulsion patients with C7 root preservation are relatively uncommon occurrences, but represent excellent candidates for surgical treatment, with satisfactory results. Shoulder abduction and extra-rotation, elbow flexion and forearm supination are lost functions restorable with surgical treatment. METHODS This single-center, prospective observational study involved a series of 27 young adults with C5 and/or C6 root complete avulsion and C7 preservation, which underwent surgical repair with double or triple nerve transfer. RESULTS Patients recovered a useful elbow flexion. Electromyographic and clinical signs of biceps reinnervation were observed in each UN-MC nerve transfer. The abduction strength recovery was M5 in 10 patients, M4 in 14 patients and M3 in 3 patients. The external rotation strength recovery was M5 in 4 patients, M4 in 18 patients, M3 in 3 patients and M2 in 2 patients. The elbow flection strength was M5 in 5 patients, M4 in 15 patients and M3 in 7 patients. Elbow extension was preserved in all cases. CONCLUSIONS The concept of 'peripheral rewiring procedures' represents an advance in the repair of the peripheral nerve injuries. Triple nerve transfer can be nowadays considered a standard treatment for isolated C5-C6 avulsions. We report our experience with the second-biggest casuistry in the literature on patients treated with this technique. We consider our outcome concerning functional recovery to be satisfying and comparable to data reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Fasce
- Department of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Pietro Fiaschi
- Department of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianconi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Università Degli Studi dI Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Carlo Sacco
- Department of Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Ospedale Civile Degli Infermi, Faenza, Italy
| | - Guido Staffa
- Department of Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Ospedale Civile Degli Infermi, Faenza, Italy
| | - Crescenzo Capone
- Department of Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Ospedale Civile Degli Infermi, Faenza, Italy
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de Joode SGCJ, Schotanus MGM, Germawi L, Westenberg RF, van Rhijn LW, Chen N, Samijo SK. Transhumeral amputation in brachial plexus lesion patients: A multicenter case series. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 2023; 109:103360. [PMID: 35792322 DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2022.103360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A flail limb can be the result of a traumatic complete brachial plexus lesion. Some patients prefer retaining the flail limb, however some patients feel that a flail limb negatively affects daily life. In these circumstances an elective amputation is sometimes elected, however long-term follow-up, with respect to satisfaction and function is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term outcome of this rare and life changing operation. MATERIALS AND METHODS 8 patients with a transhumeral amputation performed in 2 specialized medical centers were included. Postoperatively, the functional- and psychological outcome and the quality of life were evaluated with standardized patient reported outcome measures (PROMs; DASH, SIP-68, EQ-5D-5L and HADS). RESULTS After a median of 9.4 (range 7.5 - 12.8) years follow-up, 7 patients (88%) stated that they would undergo the operation again and were satisfied with the results. At latest follow-up the median DASH score was 37.3 (range 8.3-61.7), the median SIP-68 score was 6.5 (range 0-43) and the median HADS score was 3.0 (range 0-14) for anxiety and 3.0 (range 1-19) for depression. In the EQ-5D-5L patients had most difficulties in self-care, usual activities and pain/discomfort. The median overall health status was 69 (range 20-95). DISCUSSION With the right indication a transhumeral amputation is a reasonable option for traumatic complete brachial plexus lesion with satisfying long-term results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV, multicenter case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn G C J de Joode
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen and Heerlen, Netherlands; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland; School of Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Martijn G M Schotanus
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen and Heerlen, Netherlands; School of Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, Netherlands; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lazin Germawi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen and Heerlen, Netherlands; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Ritsaart F Westenberg
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Lodewijk W van Rhijn
- School of Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, Netherlands; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Neal Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Steven K Samijo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen and Heerlen, Netherlands.
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Lee EY, Spinner RJ, Mortazavi MM, Angius D, Adeeb N, Bishop AT, Shin AY. Stem cell therapy for traumatic brachial plexus injury. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2023; 165:2011-2014. [PMID: 37389748 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-023-05675-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is rapidly evolving, with preclinical studies showing various stem cell types successfully promoting peripheral nerve regeneration. Despite the lack of clinical studies demonstrating efficacy and safety, the number of commercial entities marketing and promoting this treatment direct to patients is also increasing. We describe three adult traumatic brachial plexus injury (BPI) patients who had stem cell therapies prior to consultation in a multidisciplinary brachial plexus clinic. No functional improvement was noted at long-term follow-up despite claims reported by the commercial entities. Considerations and implications of stem cell application in BPI patients are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Y Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Health System, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Robert J Spinner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Martin M Mortazavi
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Rd, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA
| | - Diana Angius
- Fondazione Don Gnocchi, Piazza Castello 20-22, 20060 Pessano con Bornago, Milan, Italy
| | - Nimer Adeeb
- Department of Neurosurgery, Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Allen T Bishop
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Alexander Y Shin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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McCarty PJ, Chaiyamoon A, Cardona JJ, Carrera A, Reina F, Georgiev GP, Iwanaga J, Dumont AS, Tubbs RS. Nerve to subclavius for neurotization procedures: an anatomical feasibility study. Neurosurg Rev 2023; 46:176. [PMID: 37452892 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-023-02079-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Injuries to the inferior trunk of the brachial plexus and its components can be debilitating. As such injuries are prioritized by surgeons during repair, an additional nerve transfer is considered herein. In the supine position, 13 adult cadavers (26 sides) underwent dissection of the nerve to subclavius and the proximal brachial plexus in the supraclavicular region. Once the nerve was located and isolated from origin to termination, measurements of its length and diameter were made. Next, the C8 and T1 roots and inferior trunk were identified. The distal end of the nerve to subclavius was transected and swung to these roots and the inferior trunk. Once the nerves to subclavius were transposed and in a tension-free manner, the length of excess nerve following being brought to each of these nerves was measured. A nerve to subclavius was identified on all sides. The nerve originated from the superior trunk and traveled anterior to the middle and inferior trunks on all sides. The mean diameter of the nerve to subclavius was 0.8 mm, and the mean length was 57 mm. After cutting the nerve to subclavius at its entrance into the subclavius muscle, the distal nerve could be transferred tension free to the inferior trunk of the brachial plexus and T1 ventral ramus on all sides. The distal nerve to subclavius reached the T1 ventral ramus with an average of 18 mm of additional length and to the C8 ventral ramus with an average of 19 mm. The nerve also could be transferred to the inferior trunk of the brachial plexus with an average of 20 mm of additional length. The nerve to subclavius was found to have approximately 3000 axons. To our knowledge, use of the nerve to subclavius has previously not been used for nerve transfer procedures. Based on our cadaveric study, this often-overlooked nerve can be easily transposed to other regional nerves such as the inferior trunk of the brachial plexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J McCarty
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Arada Chaiyamoon
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
| | - Juan J Cardona
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ana Carrera
- Medical Sciences Department, Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neurosciences Research Group, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Francisco Reina
- Medical Sciences Department, Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neurosciences Research Group, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Georgi P Georgiev
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Queen Giovanna-ISUL, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Joe Iwanaga
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Structural & Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Aaron S Dumont
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - R Shane Tubbs
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Structural & Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada
- Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery and Ochsner Neuroscience Institute, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, USA
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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47
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Chim H. Reconstruction of Prehension in C7-T1 Brachial Plexus Injury with Nerve and Tendon Transfers: A Case Report. JBJS Case Connect 2023; 13:01709767-202309000-00050. [PMID: 37590889 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.22.00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
CASE Reconstruction of function in C7-T1 lower brachial plexus injury requires restoration of finger flexion and extension with nerve or tendon transfers. A 22-year-old man was involved in an all-terrain vehicle rollover accident. First-stage nerve transfers included extensor carpi radialis brevis to the anterior interosseous nerve and supinator to the posterior interosseous nerve. After second-stage (15 months later) side-to-side flexor digitorum profundus and Camitz abductorplasty, he was able to achieve tripod pinch and power grip. CONCLUSION A combined approach with nerve transfers followed by tendon transfers allows restoration of prehension in lower BPI while preserving the brachialis as a backup donor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Chim
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
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48
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Lubelski D, Pennington Z, Ochuba AJ, Khalifeh J, Al-Mistarehi AH, Belzberg AJ. Is dorsal root entry zone lesioning effective and safe for managing continuous versus paroxysmal pains post-brachial plexus avulsion? J Neurosurg Spine 2023; 39:101-112. [PMID: 37021771 DOI: 10.3171/2023.2.spine221252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) experience chronic deafferentation pain characterized by two patterns: continuous background pain and electrical shooting paroxysmal attacks. The authors' aim was to report the effectiveness and safety of dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning in relieving the two forms of pain over short and long periods. METHODS All patients who underwent DREZ lesioning performed by the senior author for medically refractory BPA-related pain between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2020, in Johns Hopkins Hospital were followed up. The intensity levels for continuous and paroxysmal pains were evaluated using the numeric rating scale (NRS) preoperatively and at 4 time points postsurgery, including the day of discharge, with a mean hospital stay of 5.6 ± 1.8 days; first postoperative clinic visit (33.0 ± 15.7 days); short-term follow-up (4.0 ± 1.4 months); and long-term follow-up (3.1 ± 1.3 years). The percent of pain relief according to the NRS was categorized into excellent (≥ 75%), fair (25%-74%), and poor (< 25%). RESULTS A total of 19 patients were included, with 4 (21.1%) lost to long-term follow-up. The mean age was 52.7 ± 13.6 years; 16 (84.2%) were men, and 10 (52.6%) had left-sided injuries. A motor vehicle accident was the most common etiology of BPA (n = 16, 84.2%). Preoperatively, all patients had motor deficits, and 8 (42.1%) experienced somatosensory deficits. The greatest pain relief was observed at the first postoperative and short-term follow-up visits, with the lowest proportions of patients having continuous pain (26.3% and 23.5%, respectively) and paroxysmal pain (5.3% and 5.9%, respectively). Also, the highest reductions in mean NRS scores were observed for first postoperative and short-term follow-up visits (continuous 1.1 ± 2.1 and 1.1 ± 2.3; paroxysms 0.4 ± 1.4 and 0.5 ± 1.7, respectively) compared to the preoperative symptomatology (continuous 6.7 ± 3.0; paroxysms 7.9 ± 4.3) (p < 0.001). Most patients had excellent relief of continuous pain (82.4% and 81.3%) and of paroxysms (90.9% and 90.0%) at the first postoperative visit and short-term follow-up visit, respectively. The pain relief benefits had diminished by 3 years after surgery but remained significantly better than in the preoperative assessment. At the last evaluation, the proportion of patients achieving excellent relief of paroxysmal pain (66.7%) was double that for continuous pain (35.7%) (p < 0.001). New sensory phenomena were observed among 10 patients (52.6%), and 1 patient developed a motor deficit. CONCLUSIONS DREZ lesioning is an effective and safe option for relieving BPA-associated pain, with good long-term outcomes and better benefits for paroxysmal pain than for the continuous pain component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lubelski
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zach Pennington
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; and
| | - Arinze J Ochuba
- 3The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jawad Khalifeh
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Allan J Belzberg
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Xiang YT, Xing XX, Hua XY, Zhang YW, Xue X, Wu JJ, Zheng MX, Wang H, Xu JG. Altered Neural Pathways and Related Brain Remodeling: A Rat Study Using Different Nerve Reconstructions. Neurosurgery 2023; 93:233-243. [PMID: 36735283 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Function recovery is related to cortical plasticity. The brain remodeling patterns induced by alterations in peripheral nerve pathways with different nerve reconstructions are unknown. OBJECTIVE To explore brain remodeling patterns related to alterations in peripheral neural pathways after different nerve reconstruction surgeries. METHODS Twenty-four female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent complete left brachial plexus nerve transection, together with the following interventions: no nerve repair (n = 8), grafted nerve repair (n = 8), and phrenic nerve transfer (n = 8). Resting-state functional MR images of brain were acquired at the end of seventh month postsurgery. Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and functional connectivity (FC) were compared among 3 groups. Behavioral observation and electromyography assessed nerve regeneration. RESULTS Compared with brachial plexus injury group, ALFF and ReHo of left entorhinal cortex decreased in nerve repair and nerve transfer groups. The nerve transfer group showed increased ALFF and ReHo than nerve repair group in left caudate putamen, right accumbens nucleus shell (AcbSh), and right somatosensory cortex. The FC between right somatosensory cortex and bilateral piriform cortices and bilateral somatosensory cortices increased in nerve repair group than brachial plexus injury and nerve transfer groups. The nerve transfer group showed increased FC between right somatosensory cortex and areas including left corpus callosum, left retrosplenial cortex, right parietal association cortex, and right dorsolateral thalamus than nerve repair group. CONCLUSION Entorhinal cortex is a key brain area in recovery of limb function after nerve reconstruction. Nerve transfer related brain remodeling mainly involved contralateral sensorimotor areas, facilitating directional "shifting" of motor representation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ting Xiang
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Xin Xing
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu-Yun Hua
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Wen Zhang
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Xue
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Jia Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mou-Xiong Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - He Wang
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Jian-Guang Xu
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Intelligent Rehabilitation, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
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50
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Fortune BC, Yan T, Kaiju T, Suzuki T, Hirata M. Preliminary Results of Branch Level, Brachial Plexus Peripheral Nerve Stimulation on a Non-Human Primate. Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc 2023; 2023:1-5. [PMID: 38082770 DOI: 10.1109/embc40787.2023.10340246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Restoring functional hand control is a priority for those suffering from neurological impairments. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is commonly applied to assist with rehabilitation. However, FES applied intramuscularly typically results in complex surgeries requiring many implants. This paper presents the preliminary findings from a feasibility study focused on evaluating the potential to access the upper extremity peripheral nerves through a single surgical approach (axillary approach). A single Japanese macaque (macaca fuscata) monkey was used to validate the feasibility of this study. Four of the five peripheral nerves which control the upper extremity were exposed, and had multi-contact epineural cuffs implanted: median, radial, ulnar and musculocutaneous. The axillary nerve was not accessible for epineural cuff placement with the current surgical approach used in this study. Electrical stimuli were used to produce movement contraction patterns of muscles relevant to the innervated peripheral nerves. In addition, to assist in quantifying the outcome, evoked potentials were simultaneously recorded from five extrinsic forearm flexors during median nerve stimulation. This feasibility study demonstrated that the axillary approach enables electrode placement to four of the five peripheral nerves required for upper extremity control through a single skin incision.Clinical relevance- This study demonstrated that the electrode placement to most of the peripheral nerves that control the arm and hand can be done by a single surgical approach: axillary approach.
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