Sensory outcomes following brachial plexus birth palsy: A systematic review

Brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) affects approximately 1.5 in 1000 live births and can lead to significant functional impairment and reduced quality of life. To date, studies have focused on grading motor function and strength to assess patient outcomes, with less attention paid to sensory recovery. The authors aimed to systematically review the current literature on sensory outcomes following BPBP.

A systematic review of the best evidence available assessing sensory outcomes following BPBP was conducted. Two independent reviewers used a predefined search strategy to query Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Articles written in English reporting sensory outcomes in patients with BPBP, such as tactile sensation, pain, and proprioception, were included for review. A kappa score was calculated to ensure reviewer agreement.

Twenty-nine reports with 1647 cases were included. Tactile sensation was most frequently assessed (75.9%), followed by pain (44.8%) and proprioception (17.2%). Among all cases included in the analysis, 75.8% of articles were found to have patients with suboptimal results in sensory outcomes. The majority of articles (86.2%) were case series or case reports; no level 1 or 2 evidence studies were identified.

Sensory outcomes are underreported following BPBP, and significant deficits and neuropathic pain are not uncommon and likely underappreciated in this patient population. The current report underscores the need for prospective studies that look beyond motor recovery alone and evaluate sensory outcomes following BPBP.