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Obstetrical brachial plexus palsy

Elaine A Dunham1

  • 1Shriners Hospital for Children, Springfield, MA, USA.

Orthopedic Nursing
|April 22, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (OBPP) is infant arm paralysis caused by delivery trauma. Treatment evolved from surgery to conservative care, then back to surgery with improved techniques.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • Historically, infant arm paralysis was noted, with obstetric causes considered from the mid-1700s.
  • The term obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (OBPP) emerged in 1872, linking excessive traction during delivery to arm paralysis.

Observation:

  • Early surgical interventions (19th century to 1930) yielded poor outcomes.
  • A subsequent 40-year period favored conservative management due to poor surgical results and spontaneous resolutions.

Findings:

  • Advances in microsurgery by the late 1960s reignited interest in surgical approaches for OBPP.
  • Current management involves evaluating risk factors, clinical presentation, and treatment options.

Implications:

  • Understanding OBPP management and outcomes is crucial for developing effective parental support strategies.
  • This review provides insights into the historical evolution and current state of OBPP treatment.

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