Hand function rehabilitation after Brachial artery revascularization surgery at elbow due to dog bite: A case report

Abstract

Dog bite injuries to the upper extremity can result in traumatic neurovascular and musculotendinous damage. The brachial artery is the most frequently injured artery in the upper extremity. The study was undertaken with an intention to rehabilitate the hand function post brachial artery revascularization surgery at elbow caused by dog bite. A single case experimental study data was collected with hand dynamometer for the grip strength pinch grip and movement analysis was done using range of motion ROM and manual muscle testing MMT for muscle power. 3 months of physical therapy intervention was done using hand exerciser unit and galvanic stimulation. Result showed significant hand function strength improvement. Wrist extension was 47 and radial deviation 45 and ROM of wrist showed overall 60 improvement post treatment session. Grip strength showed minimal improvement of 7.5 whereas pinch grip had 33 improvement. There was marked improvement in ROM and strength post intervention although the hand function grip strength and pinch grip did not show marked improvement.