[Brachial plexus damage following coronary artery bypass graft surgery]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Neurology
• Medical Complications

Background:

• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a common cardiac surgical procedure.
• Brachial plexus injury is a recognized, albeit rare, complication following cardiac surgery, particularly with median sternotomy.
• Understanding the incidence and management of such iatrogenic injuries is crucial for patient care.

Observation:

• A patient who underwent CABG presented with left arm pain approximately three months post-operatively.
• Clinical examination and electromyography confirmed brachial plexus injury.
• This case highlights a specific instance of this post-surgical complication.

Findings:

• The brachial plexus injury was identified through a combination of clinical assessment and electrodiagnostic testing.
• The patient's symptoms were localized to the left arm, consistent with nerve damage.
• Diagnostic workup confirmed the injury post-CABG.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and prompt, appropriate treatment are essential for managing post-CABG brachial plexus injuries.
• Effective management can lead to significant improvement in the patient's quality of life.
• Raising awareness among surgeons and neurologists about this rare complication is vital for timely intervention.