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Upper extremity neuropathies following median sternotomy
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|August 1, 1982
Summary
Median sternotomy can cause upper extremity neuropathy. However, most patients recover within 3 months, with nerve conduction studies helping to pinpoint injury locations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Median sternotomy is a common surgical approach.
- Post-operative neuropathy can occur following this procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and outcomes of upper extremity neuropathy after median sternotomy.
- To identify the localization of nerve injuries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 958 patients undergoing median sternotomy.
- Evaluation of patients with upper extremity neuropathy using motor and sensory nerve conduction studies.
Main Results:
- 54 patients (5.6%) developed upper extremity neuropathy.
- Nerve conduction studies in 38 patients localized injuries to the elbow, brachial plexus, or both.
- 92% of evaluated patients were asymptomatic at 3 months post-operation.
Conclusions:
- Upper extremity neuropathy is an uncommon complication of median sternotomy.
- Most patients experience significant recovery within 3 months.
- Nerve conduction studies are valuable for diagnosing the location of nerve injury.