Brachial Plexus Injuries in Adults: Guidelines and Management in our Experience

Abstract

According to the data published in current medical literatures, brachial plexus injuries affect slightly more than 1 % of multi-trauma patients. Motorcycle accidents were the leading cause associated with the occurrence of these lesions that often lead to severe disability mostly in young individuals. The vast majority of these patients were young males between 15 and 35 years. After the injury, approximately 95% of these patients suffer from excruciating pain that poses an additional burden on the quality of life, already disrupted by the functional impairment of the upper limb. Despite the statistical rarity, brachial plexus injuries clearly have a remarkable impact on the community. Today with new techniques in the role of surgical procedures, the quality of life of many of these patients can be improved especially in partial lesions allowing functional recovery, rescuing these young individuals from disability and improving their lifestyle. Early diagnostic assessment with prompt referral to the surgeon is crucial to obtain a positive outcome. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process. The Author aims to illustrate guidelines in the management and surgical treatment of brachial plexus injuries as gained in over 20 years of experience in medical practice.