Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026
Structured Motor Rehabilitation After Selective Nerve Transfers
Published on: August 15, 2019
Treatment of a proximal accessory nerve injury with nerve transfer
Christine B Novak1, Susan E Mackinnon
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, WA University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Objective And Hypothesis:
This study presents a case report of a patient who sustained an iatrogenic proximal accessory nerve injury that was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer.
Study Design:
Case study.
Materials And Methods:
Chart of one patient who was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer was reviewed.
Results:
Five months after excision of a branchial cyst that resulted in a very proximal injury to the accessory nerve, this patient underwent a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer. At final follow-up, 3 years after surgery, the patient had full abduction overhead with some residual shoulder/scapular discomfort and mild scapular winging.
Conclusion:
The medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer provides a viable surgical option with good reinnervation of the trapezius muscle in patients with a proximal accessory nerve injury where standard nerve repair or graft techniques are not feasible.
