Brachial Plexus Injuries Associated with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation : A Report of 3 Cases
Emily M Peairs1, Robert J Spinner2, Alexander Y Shin1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Minnesota.
Case:
We present 3 cases of brachial plexus injuries (BPI) secondary to compressive hematomas during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), with follow-up ranging from 18 months to 12 years. Patients exhibited profound upper extremity deficits and underwent variable interventions, including surgical decompression. All demonstrated meaningful neurologic recovery.
Conclusion:
BPI is a rare but serious complication of ECMO. These cases highlight the importance of early recognition and hematoma evacuation, emphasizing the need for clinical vigilance to optimize neurologic outcomes following hematoma-induced nerve injury.
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