Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026
08:41
Unilateral Pyramidotomy of the Corticospinal Tract in Rats for Assessment of Neuroplasticity-inducing Therapies
Published on: December 15, 2014
Long-term functional results of contralateral C7 transfer
Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery
|April 2, 1998
Summary
Contralateral C7 nerve root transfer effectively restored function in brachial plexus root avulsion patients. This surgical technique achieved significant muscle and sensory recovery, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Brachial plexus root avulsion presents a significant challenge in restoring upper limb function.
- Contralateral C7 nerve root transfer offers a potential solution for nerve reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of contralateral C7 nerve root transfer in patients with brachial plexus root avulsion.
- To assess functional recovery outcomes, including muscle strength and sensory restoration.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 82 patients undergoing contralateral C7 nerve root transfer between 1986 and 1994.
- Comparison of one-stage versus two-stage surgical procedures.
- Follow-up assessment of 20 postoperative cases for muscle (MRC scale) and sensory recovery.
Main Results:
- Overall muscle recovery (MRC grade ≥3) was 60%, and sensory recovery (S3) was 78%.
- Specific nerve transfers (e.g., to musculocutaneous, median, radial nerves) demonstrated varying degrees of functional restoration.
- Outcomes were influenced by patient age, time to surgery, and the use of the ulnar nerve as an interposition graft.
Conclusions:
- Contralateral C7 nerve root transfer is a viable surgical option for brachial plexus root avulsion.
- The technique facilitates significant functional recovery, though outcomes are modulated by several factors.
- Further research into optimizing surgical timing and technique is warranted.
