Abstract

VERGARA AMADOR, Enrique. Combined nerve transfers in the treatment of upper brachial plexus injuries. Rev Cubana Ortop Traumatol [online]. 2012, vol.26, n.2, pp.128-142. ISSN 0864-215X.

Introduction: in upper brachial plexus injuries, recovery of shoulder abduction and flexion is based on spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer. The axillary nerve is reconstructed with nerve grafts if there is availability of C5 or C6, or with nerve transfers of triceps or intercostal branches. Elbow flexion is achieved with nerve fascicles from the cubital to the biceps nerve. Objective: present the results obtained in a series of patients with upper brachial plexus injuries treated with nerve transfers. Methods: a study was conducted of 34 patients with C5-C6 injuries operated on between 2003 and 2010. Spinal to suprascapular nerve neurotization was performed, as well as transfer of fascicles from the cubital to the biceps nerve, and in some cases of triceps branch to the axillary nerve. Surgery was performed within 4 to 12 months from the injury. Results: 110 degrees abduction was obtained in patients with axillary neurotization with triceps branch. Transfer with cubital to biceps fascicles was good, with 118 degrees flexion and M4 strength. They were also better and faster than those reconstructed with nerve grafts. 35 degrees shoulder abduction was achieved with spinal accessory transfer at 14 months. Over time, abduction is further restored, and external rotation appears. In 10 patients external rotation was 47 degrees after 18 months. Triceps to axillary nerve transfer improves shoulder abduction. 110 degrees abduction was achieved in 3 patients. Conclusion: better results are currently obtained with nerve transfer techniques in upper brachial plexus injuries. This is the standard treatment for C5 and C6 avulsions.

Keywords : brachial plexus neuropathies; biceps nerve; nerve transfer; neurotization; suprascapular nerve.

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