Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
09:14
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.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Spinal Nerves: Plexus I
Nerve plexuses are networks of interlacing nerves that serve as communication hubs to distribute and organize nerve action across various body regions. The nerve plexuses are organized into the cervical plexus located in the neck region, brachial plexus in the shoulder area, lumbar plexus found in the lower back, sacral plexus situated in the pelvis, and coccygeal plexus located in the coccygeal region.
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
01:23Muscles of the Shoulder
The muscles surrounding the shoulder girdle, including the clavicle and scapula, primarily stabilize the scapula. This stable base allows other muscles to move the humerus effectively. Scapular movements often mirror those of the humerus and extend its range of motion. For instance, raising the arm above the head would not be feasible without simultaneous upward rotation of the scapula.
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
01:26Flail Chest-II
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History: