[Post-anaesthetic palsies of brachial plexus (author's transl)]

Six cases of post-anaesthetic upper plexus palsy are described, in one case combined with an injury of the accessory nerve. These palsies are commonly due to stretching of the plexus when the arm is in an extreme position, especially when the neck is extended and flexed to the opposite side at the same time. Though mostly reversible, these lesions can incapacitate the patients for a long period and must be avoided. The methods of prevention are discussed in detail.