P138 – 3000: Neonatal brachial plexus palsy – Romanian single centre experience over 6 years

Abstract

Objective The aim of this poster is to analyze the cohort of patients with NBPP followed in the Pediatric Neurology Department, to identify specific clinical signs, investigations, outcome and to establish a protocol of diagnosis and follow-up for children with NBPP, according to the actual international recommendations adapted to the local needs. Methods The archive of Pediatric Neurology Clinic was retrospectively analyzed over a 6.5 years period (January 2007–July 2013), selecting the patients with NBPP. Clinical data, information about physical therapy, EMG and MRI results (if needed) were extract from the files and Active motor scale, Toronto score and protocol for obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (Hospital for Sick Children Seattle), were retrospectively applied. Also a questionnaire designed by us was applied for evaluation of present neurological status. Results A cohort of 28 cases evaluated in our clinic between Jan 2007-July 2013 was analyzed. 17 (60.7%) of the patients were boys and 11 (39.2%) were girls. 14 (50%) had right brachial plexus palsy, 12 (42.8%) had left brachial plexus palsy and 2 (7.1%) had bilateral involvement. 5 (17.8%) of them had reconstructive surgery. 11 (39.2%) had good to complete recovery with physical therapy. Conclusion A better information of the parents and doctors concerning the steps of evaluation of this diseases and importance of early diagnosis and compliance with the treatment protocol is critical for a better outcome and for avoiding permanent deficit. This is a pilot study, with a proposal of protocol for diagnosis and treatment, according to the international protocols in force, but prospective studies are mandatory to complete and refresh the existent data. The aim of this poster is to analyze the cohort of patients with NBPP followed in the Pediatric Neurology Department, to identify specific clinical signs, investigations, outcome and to establish a protocol of diagnosis and follow-up for children with NBPP, according to the actual international recommendations adapted to the local needs. The archive of Pediatric Neurology Clinic was retrospectively analyzed over a 6.5 years period (January 2007–July 2013), selecting the patients with NBPP. Clinical data, information about physical therapy, EMG and MRI results (if needed) were extract from the files and Active motor scale, Toronto score and protocol for obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (Hospital for Sick Children Seattle), were retrospectively applied. Also a questionnaire designed by us was applied for evaluation of present neurological status. A cohort of 28 cases evaluated in our clinic between Jan 2007-July 2013 was analyzed. 17 (60.7%) of the patients were boys and 11 (39.2%) were girls. 14 (50%) had right brachial plexus palsy, 12 (42.8%) had left brachial plexus palsy and 2 (7.1%) had bilateral involvement. 5 (17.8%) of them had reconstructive surgery. 11 (39.2%) had good to complete recovery with physical therapy. A better information of the parents and doctors concerning the steps of evaluation of this diseases and importance of early diagnosis and compliance with the treatment protocol is critical for a better outcome and for avoiding permanent deficit. This is a pilot study, with a proposal of protocol for diagnosis and treatment, according to the international protocols in force, but prospective studies are mandatory to complete and refresh the existent data.