Brachial plexus injuries in scapulothoracic dissociation
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Updated: Oct 10, 2026

Development of a Neonatal Rat Model for Brachial Plexus Birth Injury
Published on: March 27, 2026
E H Masmejean1, H Asfazadourian, J Y Alnot
1Department of Orthopaedic and Hand Surgery, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France. Emmanuel.Masmejean@wanadoo.fr
Abstract:
The rare condition of scapulothoracic dissociation (STD) is characterized by a lateral displacement of the scapula from the thoracic cage following severe trauma to the scapular girdle. This study presents an analysis of five STDs. There were three supraclavicular brachial plexus palsies and two retro- and infraclavicular palsies. Recovery of elbow flexion was obtained in only two cases. Nerve damage dominates the prognosis and nerve recovery only rarely occurs. Nerve surgery should attempt to reestablish elbow flexion.
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