The importance of a double team in brachial plexus surgery

Brachial plexus surgery constitutes a long and complex procedure. The aim of our study is to assess the interest of having a double operating team throughout the duration of this surgery.

Seventeen patients with brachial plexus palsy underwent surgery operated by a double team. The operating time corresponding to each step of the procedure and the total operating time were measured for each patient. The separate values were added so as to obtain a simulation of the total duration value for a single surgeon. The operative time of this virtual group of patients (Group I) was compared to that of the real group operated by the double team (Group II). Both values were compared to assess any statistical significance.

The mean operating time was 259 min with surgery operated by a double team and 371 min in the group I, a difference found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). Exploration and preparation of the cervical region lasted 70 min in average with the double team versus 132 min in the group I (p<0.05). No perioperative complications were noted.

Brachial plexus surgery performed by a double team allows the reduction of the operating time and thus minimizes the drawbacks associated with lengthy surgery such as perioperative bleeding and infection. Microsurgical suturing which is the crucial part of the surgery is easier when performed at the end of a shortened intervention and shared by two senior surgeons with, subsequently, less fatigue. This new organization that improves the operating conditions guarantees best results.