[Postradiotherapy brachial plexitis: the experience of the Institut Gustave-Roussy]

Twenty-five cases of presumed radiation-induced brachial plexopathy were identified out of a population treated at the Institut Gustave-Roussy, in 3 different ways, during the period 1967-1980. The incidence of this complication is given for each group, and the radiation dosage and natural history is described, with results of neurolysis when it was possible. The absence of successful treatment methods makes prevention of this complication crucial. The use of fraction sizes no greater than 2.5 Gy, and the avoidance of radiation treatment to the completely dissected axilla, are advocated.