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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
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Surface Electromyographic Biofeedback as a Rehabilitation Tool for Patients with Global Brachial Plexus Injury Receiving Bionic Reconstruction
Published on: September 28, 2019
Shoulder reanimation in posttraumatic brachial plexus paralysis
Marios D Vekris1, Alexandros E Beris, Dimitrios Pafilas
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Ioannina, School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece. vekrismd@otenet.gr
Injury
|February 24, 2010
Summary
Early neurotisation of the suprascapular and axillary nerves is crucial for restoring shoulder function after brachial plexus injury. Prioritizing these nerves in reconstruction offers the best outcomes for patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Posttraumatic brachial plexus paralysis often affects upper roots, causing shoulder musculature paralysis.
- Early neurotisation of the suprascapular and axillary nerves is a priority in plexus reconstruction for shoulder reanimation.
Observation:
- 78 patients with posttraumatic brachial plexus palsy underwent surgery between 1998 and 2007.
- 43 patients had supraclavicular lesions involving C5 and C6 roots.
- Reconstruction focused on suprascapular nerve neurotisation (41 patients) and axillary nerve neurotisation (25 patients).
Findings:
- Suprascapular nerve neurotisation yielded good/excellent results in 35 patients (85%).
- Axillary nerve neurotisation achieved good/excellent results in 14 patients (58%).
- Combined suprascapular and axillary nerve neurotisation provided the best functional recovery for shoulder abduction and external rotation.
Implications:
- Shoulder reanimation should be a primary goal in brachial plexus reconstruction.
- Early neurotisation of the suprascapular and axillary nerves leads to optimal functional outcomes.
- Surgical strategies should prioritize restoring shoulder function through timely nerve reconstruction.
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Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History: