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Updated: Dec 15, 2025
Structured Motor Rehabilitation After Selective Nerve Transfers
Published on: August 15, 2019
Nerve transfers for acute flaccid myelitis: a case series
C O Heise1,2, A J de Oliveira3, T Bhering3
1Peripheral Nerve Surgery Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Functional Neurosurgery, Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. carlos.heise@hc.fm.usp.br.
Background:
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) syndrome consists of loss of lower motor neurons following a viral infection, with preserved sensory function. It usually affects the upper limbs asymmetrically, with proximal more than distal muscle involvement.
Methods:
Five cases were surgically treated with nerve transfers: spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer (4 patients), branch of radial nerve to axillary nerve transfer (Somsak's procedure) (2 patients), and transfer of a fascicle of the ulnar nerve to the motor branch to the biceps (Oberlin's procedure) (1 patient).
Results:
Motor improvement was seen in three cases. Widespread motor involvement was associated with poor outcome.
Conclusion:
This small series of cases reinforces that nerve transfers are a reliable option for treatment of selected children with AFM.
