Treatment of total root avulsion of brachial plexus by contralateral C_7 nerve transfer for directly repairing C_8T_1 via prespinal route combined with functioning gracilis transplantation

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical design and therapeutic effect of total root avulsion of brachial plexus by contralateral C_7 nerve transfer for directly repairing C_8T_1 via prespinal route combined with functioning gracilis transplantation. Methods Twelve cases of total roots avulsion of brachial plexus were operated at 1 month to 3 months after injury.The contralateral C_7 nerve was successfully transferred to directly repair avulsed C_8T_1 roots or lower trunk via prespinal route.At 2nd operation stage after 4 to 8 months,the functioning gracills transplantation was preformed to reconstruct the elbow flexion and fingers extension. Results Follow-ups were carried out in all 12 cases who had been discharged for 9 to 36 months after the first operation.The positive Tinel signs of ulnar or median nerves were located in the proximal arm at 3 months after 1st operation,in the elbow or proximal forarm at 6 months,and in the wrist or distal forarm at 9 months.At 12 months the positive Tinel signs were found in the plam or fingers in 9 cases.The contraction of sternocostal part of pectoralis major was found at 9 mooths in 7 cases.There were the restoration of the taction-pain sensation in the palm, finger, and medial side of forearm and the contraction of flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor digitorum(M_3)in 5 cases at 15 to 18 months after 1st operation.In 7 patients the flexion of elbow and extension of fingers and thumb restored at 9 to 12 months after the 2nd operation.Their elbow flexion was 90°-120°and M_3(Highet's method),and their finger and thumb extension M_3. Conclusion There is the possibility of the operative design and clinical application of total root avulsion of brachial plexus by contralateral C_7 nerve transfer for directly repairing C_8T_1 via prespinal route combined with functioning gracilis transplantation.There are not only the restoration of sensation and flexion of wrist and fingers,but also the restoration of elbow flexion and fingers extension. Key words: Brachial plexus; Root avulsion; Nerve transfer; Contralateral C_7; Prespinal route; Gracilis; Transplantation