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Management of Brachial Plexus Injuries

Written by Dr Richard Lawson FRACS - Hand Surgeon

 
How are brachial plexus injuries managed?


It is important to have an early assessment of the injury by an experienced brachial plexus surgeon, as there is a group of patients that is best managed by early surgery. 

Following an assessment by the brachial plexus surgeon, a number of tests are usually ordered. These will often include an X-ray of the neck, to rule out fractures of the neck vertebrae, an X-ray of the collar bone and shoulder to rule out fractures of these bones, and often a chest X-ray to check for rib fractures and to see how the diaphragm is functioning. Electrical studies are also usually ordered to assess the electrical status of the nerves and the muscles that these supply. An MRI may be ordered to look at the nerve roots as they come out of the neck.

After a full assessment, physiotherapy is usually prescribed to maintain good movements in all of the joints that have been affected, whilst waiting for recovery of the nerves or awaiting surgery.

 
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