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Published on: October 19, 2021
[Anatomic study on intercostal nerve transfer to suprascapular nerve].
Bin Chu1, Shaonan Hu, Liang Chen
1Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, PR China.
Summary
Intercostal nerve transfer to the suprascapular nerve shows promise for shoulder abduction reconstruction. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th intercostal nerves are viable options, while the 6th may require nerve grafts.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomy
- Reconstructive Surgery
Context:
- Shoulder abduction paralysis presents a significant functional deficit.
- Nerve transfer offers a potential solution for restoring shoulder function.
- The suprascapular nerve is crucial for shoulder abduction.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the anatomical feasibility of using the 3rd-6th intercostal nerves for suprascapular nerve neurotization.
- To determine the available length of intercostal nerves for transfer to the suprascapular nerve.
Summary:
- Cadaveric dissection of 15 thoracic walls assessed intercostal nerve lengths from the midaxillary to midclavicular line.
- The 3rd and 4th intercostal nerves provided sufficient length for transfer.
- The 5th intercostal nerve showed borderline length, while the 6th was generally insufficient without additional length.
Impact:
- This study suggests the 3rd, 4th, and 5th intercostal nerves are potential autografts for suprascapular nerve reconstruction.
- The findings provide anatomical data to guide surgical planning for shoulder abduction restoration.
- Further research may explore nerve grafting techniques for the 6th intercostal nerve.
