Supraclavicular approach for neonatal brachial plexus palsy.

Abstract

Neonatal brachial plexus palsy describes injury to the brachial plexus in the perinatal period, resulting in motor and sensory deficits of the upper arm. Nerve reconstruction, including graft repair and nerve transfers, can be used to restore function in patients whose injury does not respond to conservative management. Despite the availability of these techniques, 30%-40% of children have lifelong disability, reflecting a 10-fold underutilization of surgery. Here, the authors demonstrate a supraclavicular approach for brachial plexus exploration, as well as a spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer for restoration of shoulder abduction and external rotation. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2022.10.FOCVID22109.