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Electrophysiological changes after severance of the C7 nerve root
1Department of Hand Surgery, Hua Shan Hospital, Shanghai Medical University, People's Republic of China.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Contralateral C7 root transfer for brachial plexus injuries showed no permanent functional damage to the upper limb. Electrophysiological studies revealed only minor, transient muscle abnormalities in a few patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Contralateral C7 root transfer is a surgical technique for brachial plexus root avulsions.
- Established since 1986, its long-term effects require ongoing investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the post-operative electrophysiological impact of contralateral C7 root transfer on the healthy limb.
- To determine if C7 nerve root severance causes permanent functional deficits.
Main Methods:
- Post-operative electrophysiological examinations were conducted on the healthy-side limb of 27 patients.
- Included electromyography, nerve conduction studies (radial motor, median sensory), and somatosensory evoked potentials.
Main Results:
- Mild, transient abnormalities in individual limb muscles were observed in a few patients.
- Median nerve sensory conduction amplitude was slightly reduced compared to controls (p < 0.05).
- Most observed changes demonstrated recovery during follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Contralateral C7 root transfer does not result in permanent functional damage to the contralateral upper limb.
- Electrophysiological changes are minimal and largely reversible, supporting the safety of the procedure.