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Published on: May 10, 2017
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Parsonage-Turner Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases
Suryateja D Rao1, Jason E Crowther1, Pascal Scemama1
1Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA.
Background:
Parsonage-Turner Syndrome (PTS) is a rare, often idiopathic neuromuscular condition characterized by sudden-onset pain and neurologic symptoms in various distributions of the brachial plexus. Medical or interventional management of this condition may sometimes be inadequate, prompting consideration of advanced interventions, including peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS).
Case Report:
We report 2 cases of PTS refractory to standard management. The patients presented with abrupt onset of significant pain, weakness, and limited functionality of the upper extremity. Repeated nerve blocks failed to provide adequate pain control or symptomatic relief, and both patients were offered a one-week trial of a temporary PNS system. After satisfactory results, the systems were permanently implanted, with differing long-term outcomes.
Conclusion:
While the efficacy of the PNS system in managing symptoms of PTS varied, we believe these cases highlight the utility of PNS in refractory cases of Parsonage-Turner Syndrome, providing patients a chance of clinically significant relief.
