British Medical Research Council Grading Research Articles

Global trends and outcomes of nerve transfers for treatment of adult brachial plexus injuries.

The presentation, management and outcomes of brachial plexus injuries are likely to be subject to regional differences across the globe. A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify relevant articles related to spinal accessory to suprascapular, intercostal to musculocutaneous, and ulnar and/or median nerve fascicle to biceps and/or brachialis motor branch nerve transfers for treatment of brachial plexus injuries. A total of 6007 individual brachial plexus injuries were described with a mean follow-up of 38 months. The specific indication for accessory to suprascapular and intercostal to musculocutaneous transfers were considerably different among regions (e.g. upper plexus vs. pan-plexal), while uniform for fascicular transfer for elbow flexion (e.g. upper plexus +/- C7). Similarly, functional recovery was highly variable for accessory to suprascapular and intercostal to musculocutaneous transfers, while British Medical Research Council grade ≥3 strength after fascicular transfer for elbow flexion was frequently obtained. Overall, differences in outcomes seem to be inherent to the specific transfer being utilized.Level of evidence: III.

Functional outcomes of different surgical treatments for common peroneal nerve injuries: a retrospective comparative study

BackgroundThis study aims to assess the recovery patterns and factors influencing outcomes in patients with common peroneal nerve (CPN) injury.MethodsThis retrospective study included 45 patients with CPN injuries treated between 2009 and 2019 in Jing’an District Central Hospital. The surgical interventions were categorized into three groups: neurolysis (group A; n = 34 patients), nerve repair (group B; n = 5 patients) and tendon transfer (group C; n = 6 patients). Preoperative and postoperative sensorimotor functions were evaluated using the British Medical Research Council grading system. The outcome of measures included the numeric rating scale, walking ability, numbness and satisfaction. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was utilized to determine the optimal time interval between injury and surgery for predicting postoperative foot dorsiflexion function, toe dorsiflexion function, and sensory function.ResultsSurgical interventions led to improvements in foot dorsiflexion strength in all patient groups, enabling most to regain independent walking ability. Group A (underwent neurolysis) had significant sensory function restoration (P < 0.001), and three patients in Group B (underwent nerve repair) had sensory improvements. ROC analysis revealed that the optimal time interval for achieving M3 foot dorsiflexion recovery was 9.5 months, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.871 (95% CI = 0.661–1.000, P = 0.040). For M4 foot dorsiflexion recovery, the optimal cut-off was 5.5 months, with an AUC of 0.785 (95% CI = 0.575–0.995, P = 0.020). When using M3 toe dorsiflexion recovery or S4 sensory function recovery as the gold standard, the optimal cut-off remained at 5.5 months, with AUCs of 0.768 (95% CI = 0.582–0.953, P = 0.025) and 0.853 (95% CI = 0.693–1.000, P = 0.001), respectively.ConclusionsOur study highlights the importance of early surgical intervention in CPN injury recovery, with optimal outcomes achieved when surgery is performed within 5.5 to 9.5 months post-injury. These findings provide guidance for clinicians in tailoring treatment plans to the specific characteristics and requirements of CPN injury patients.

The Clinical Outcomes of Spinal Accessory to Suprascapular Nerve Transfer Through a Posterior Approach.

Spinal accessory nerve (SAN) to suprascapular nerve (SSN) transfer can restore function to the rotator cuff following brachial plexus injuries. The traditional anterior approach using the lateral branch of the SAN causes denervation of the lateral trapezius limiting shoulder elevation. Suprascapular nerve pathology at the suprascapular notch may be missed resulting in poor reinnervation of the rotator cuff. The posterior approach uses the medial SAN and allows decompression and visualization of the SSN at the notch and nerve transfer coaptation closer to the target muscles with a shorter reinnervation distance. This is a review of 28 patients from 2014 to February 2020 who underwent SAN to SSN nerve transfer via a posterior approach. Patients were evaluated for SSN pathology, external rotation power, and range of motion. Data were evaluated for high-energy trauma (HET) and low-energy trauma/nontraumatic etiology subsets. A total of 8 HET (40%) patients had pathology identified at the suprascapular notch during the posterior approach, including SSN scarring, ruptures, neuromata-in-continuity, and ossification of ligaments. British Medical Research Council grade greater than or equal to 4 shoulder external rotation was achieved in 75% patients with median range of motion 137.5°. Spinal accessory nerve to SSN transfer using a posterior approach allows visualization of pathology involving the SSN and coaptation of a medial SAN transfer close to the target muscles. Following HET, 8 cases (40%) had posterior pathology identified. Spinal accessory nerve to SSN transfer through a posterior approach shows improved external rotation power and range of motion.

Clinical outcomes of a novel porcine small intestinal submucosa patch for full-thickness hand skin defects: a retrospective investigation

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical outcomes of a novel soft tissue repair patch (porcine small intestinal submucosa patch, SIS patch) in the treatment of full-thickness hand skin defects.MethodsFrom January 2017 to July 2019, 80 patients with hand soft tissue defects, who met the inclusion criteria, were retrospectively reviewed and divided into two groups. After debridement, patients in group A were treated with the novel SIS patch to cover the wound, and patients in group B were treated with autologous skin graft. The dimensions of skin defect area and healing outcome were evaluated and recorded. Scar assessment was carried out using Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating Scale (SCAR scale) at the last follow-up postoperation, and the recovery of wound sensation was assessed at the same time using British Medical Research Council (BMRC) grading of sensorimotor recovery. All the data were collected and statistically analyzed.ResultsA total of 80 patients were enrolled in the study with 40 patients in each group. Four patients in group A and 5 patients in group B were excluded due to wound infection and lost to follow-up. There were 36 patients in group A and 35 patients in group B finally got follow-up postoperation with mean interval of 12.75 ± 5.61 months in group A and 14.11 ± 5.42 months in group B. The dimensions of skin defect area in group A ranged from 7.5 to 87.5 cm2 (mean 25.97 ± 18.66 cm2) and in group B ranged from 7.5 to 86.25 cm2 (mean 33.61 ± 19.27 cm2) which have no significant difference (P > 0.05). SCAR scale results of group A and group B were 10.98 ± 0.33 and 9.49 ± 0.35, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). BMRC grading results showed 6 cases of S4, 11 cases of S3+, 5 cases of S3, 6 cases of S2, 6 cases of S1 and 2 cases of S0 in group A, and 8 cases of S4, 10 cases of S3+, 7 cases of S3, 4 cases of S2, 5 cases of S1, and 1 case of S0 in group B, which had no significant difference between them (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThe novel SIS patch is an applicable biological material in the treatment of hand skin defect, which could achieve a better cosmetic appearance of the newborn skin tissue.

Spinal oncologic paraparesis: Analysis of neurological and surgical outcomes in patients with intramedullary, extramedullary, and extradural tumors.

Paraparesis due to oncologic lesions of the spine warrants swift neurosurgical intervention to prevent permanent disability and hence maintain independence of affected patients. Clinical parameters that predict a favorable outcome after surgical intervention could aid decision-making in emergency situations. Patients who underwent surgical intervention for paraparesis (grade of muscle strength <5 according to the British Medical Research Council grading system) secondary to spinal neoplasms between 2006 and 2020 were included in a single-center retrospective analysis. Pre- and postoperative clinical data were collected. The neurological status was assessed using the modified McCormick Disability Scale (mMcC) Score. In a univariate analysis, patients with favorable (discharge mMcC improved or stable at <3) and non-favorable outcome (discharge mMcC deteriorated or stable at >2) and different tumor anatomical compartments were statistically compared. 117 patients with oncologic paraparesis pertaining to intramedullary lesions (n=17, 15%), intradural extramedullary (n=24, 21%) and extradural lesions (n=76, 65%) with a mean age of 65.3 ± 14.6 years were included in the analysis. Thoracic tumors were the most common (77%), followed by lumbar and cervical tumors (13% and 12%, respectively). Surgery was performed within a mean of 36±60 hours of admission across all tumors and included decompression over a median of 2 segments (IQR:1-3) and mostly subtotal tumor resection (n=83, 71%). Surgical and medical complications were documented in 9% (n=11) and 7% (n=8) of cases, respectively. The median hospital length-of-stay was 9 (7-13) days. Upon discharge, the median mMcC score had improved from 3 to 2 (p<0.0001). At last follow-up (median 180; IQR 51-1080 days), patients showed an improvement in their mean Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) from 51.7±18.8% to 65.3±20.4% (p<0.001). Localization in the intramedullary compartment, a high preoperative mMcC score, in addition to bladder and bowel dysfunction were associated with a non-favorable outcome (p<0.001). The data presented on patients with spinal oncologic paraparesis provide a risk-benefit narrative that favors surgical intervention across all etiologies. At the same time, they outline clinical factors that confer a less-favorable outcome like intramedullary tumor localization, a high McCormick score and/or bladder and bowel abnormalities at admission.

Comparison of anatomical-based vs. nTMS-based risk stratification model for predicting postoperative motor outcome and extent of resection in brain tumor surgery

BackgroundTwo statistical models have been established to evaluate characteristics associated with postoperative motor outcome in patients with glioma associated to the motor cortex (M1) or the corticospinal tract (CST). One model is based on a clinicoradiological prognostic sum score (PrS) while the other one relies on navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) and diffusion-tensor-imaging (DTI) tractography. The objective was to compare the models regarding their prognostic value for postoperative motor outcome and extent of resection (EOR) with the aim of developing a combined, improved model. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed a consecutive prospective cohort of patients who underwent resection for motor associated glioma between 2008 and 2020, and received a preoperative nTMS motor mapping with nTMS-based diffusion tensor imaging tractography. The primary outcomes were the EOR and the motor outcome (on the day of discharge and 3 months postoperatively according to the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) grading). For the nTMS model, the infiltration of M1, tumor-tract distance (TTD), resting motor threshold (RMT) and fractional anisotropy (FA) were assesed. For the PrS score (ranging from 1 to 8, lower scores indicating a higher risk), we assessed tumor margins, volume, presence of cysts, contrast agent enhancement, MRI index (grading white matter infiltration), preoperative seizures or sensorimotor deficits. ResultsTwo hundred and three patients with a median age of 50 years (range: 20–81 years) were analyzed of whom 145 patients (71.4%) received a GTR. The rate of transient new motor deficits was 24.1% and of permanent new motor deficits 18.8%. The nTMS model demonstrated a good discrimination ability for the short-term motor outcome at day 7 of discharge (AUC = 0.79, 95 %CI: 0.72–0.86) and the long-term motor outcome after 3 months (AUC = 0.79, 95 %CI: 0.71–0.87). The PrS score was not capable to predict the postoperative motor outcome in this cohort but was moderately associated with the EOR (AUC = 0.64; CI 0.55–0.72). An improved, combined model was calculated to predict the EOR more accurately (AUC = 0.74, 95 %CI: 0.65–0.83). ConclusionThe nTMS model was superior to the clinicoradiological PrS model for potentially predicting the motor outcome. A combined, improved model was calculated to estimate the EOR. Thus, patient counseling and surgical planning in patients with motor-associated tumors should be performed using functional nTMS data combined with tractography.

A Phase 2A Trial of the Safety and Tolerability of Increased Dose Rifampicin and Adjunctive Linezolid, With or Without Aspirin, for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Tuberculous Meningitis: The LASER-TBM Trial.

Drug regimens that include intensified antibiotics alongside effective anti-inflammatory therapies may improve outcomes in tuberculous meningitis (TBM). Safety data on their use in combination and in the context of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are needed to inform clinical trial design. We conducted a phase 2, open-label, parallel-design, randomized, controlled trial to assess the safety of high-dose rifampicin, linezolid, and high-dose aspirin in HIV-associated TBM. Participants were randomized (1.4:1:1) to 3 treatment arms (1, standard of care [SOC]; 2, SOC + additional rifampicin [up to 35 mg/kg/d] + linezolid 1200 mg/d reducing after 28 days to 600 mg/d; 3, as per arm 2 + aspirin 1000 mg/d) for 56 days, when the primary outcome of adverse events of special interest (AESI) or death was assessed. A total of 52 participants with HIV-associated TBM were randomized; 59% had mild disease (British Medical Research Council (MRC) grade 1) vs 39% (grade 2) vs 2% (grade 3). AESI or death occurred in 10 of 16 (63%; arm 3) vs 4 of 14 (29%; arm 2) vs 6 of 20 (30%; arm 1; P = .083). The cumulative proportion of AESI or death (Kaplan-Meier) demonstrated worse outcomes in arm 3 vs arm 1 (P = .04); however, only 1 event in arm 3 was attributable to aspirin and was mild. There was no difference in efficacy (modified Rankin scale) between arms. High-dose rifampicin and adjunctive linezolid can safely be added to the standard of care in HIV-associated TBM. Larger studies are required to determine whether potential toxicity associated with these interventions, particularly high-dose aspirin, is outweighed by mortality or morbidity benefit. NCT03927313.

Bioengineered nerve conduits and wraps for peripheral nerve repair of the upper limb

Bioengineered nerve conduits and wraps for peripheral nerve repair of the upper limb

Combined Nerve and Tendon Transfers for C7-T1 Brachial Plexus Avulsion Injury.

In patients with C7-T1 brachial plexus avulsions, complete loss of hand function is commonly seen. However, the reconstruction of hand function is difficult. To report the outcomes of hand function recovery after combined nerve and tendon transfers in C7-T1 brachial plexus injury. From 2012 to 2019, 8 patients with C7-T1 brachial plexus injury underwent combined nerve and tendon transfers for hand function restoration, which included the following: (1) the pronator teres motor branch to the anterior interosseous nerve and brachialis motor branch to the flexor digitorum superficialis branch for finger flexion, (2) the supinator motor branch to the posterior interosseous nerve for finger extension, (3) the brachioradialis tendon transfer for thumb opposition, and (4) the radial branch of the superficial radial nerve to the sensory branch of the ulnar nerve for sensory reconstruction. Patients were evaluated for functional improvement of finger flexion, finger extension, thumb opposition, and sensory recovery. No clinical donor deficits were observed. Seven of eight patients recovered finger and thumb flexion (4 patients scored British Medical Research Council grade M4 and 3 scored M3). The average grip strength was 3.4 kg. All patients regained finger extension (4 scored M4 and 4 scored M3), thumb opposition, and protective sensation on the ulnar hand. Patients were able to use their reconstructed hands in daily lives. Combined nerve and tendon transfers are reliable and effective. This strategy could be an option for hand function reconstruction after C7-T1 brachial plexus injury.

Factors Impacting the Success of Free Functioning Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Elbow Flexion in Brachial Plexus Reconstruction.

Free functioning muscle transfer is a reconstructive option to restore elbow flexion in brachial plexus injuries. The authors determined the impact of body mass index, age, and location of distal tendon attachment on elbow flexion strength after free functioning muscle transfer in traumatic brachial plexus injury patients. A retrospective review of patients who underwent free functioning muscle transfer for elbow flexion as part of their brachial plexus injury reconstruction with a minimum 2-year follow-up were evaluated. Outcomes assessed included elbow flexion strength (British Medical Research Council grade) and change in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and visual analogue scale pain scores. One hundred six patients met inclusion criteria. The average age was 32 years, and the average body mass index was 27.1 kg/m2; 56.5 percent of patients achieved M3 or greater muscle grade using the authors' strict modification of the British Medical Research Council scale. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire scores improved from 45.7 to 38.8 (p < 0.05). Visual analogue scale pain scores decreased, but this trend did not obtain significance. Age and body mass index both had a significant negative impact on final free functioning muscle transfer grade (p < 0.05). Use of a distal tendon insertion led to improved muscle grade outcomes, with targeting of wrist extension being superior to finger flexion (p < 0.05). Simultaneous musculocutaneous nerve grafting did not significantly alter final elbow flexion strength. Increasing age and body mass index both imparted a deleterious effect on free functioning muscle transfer muscle grade. Distal muscle targets had better strength outcomes than when the biceps tendon was used. Risk, III.

Elevated Body Mass Index Negatively Impacts Recovery of Shoulder Abduction Strength in Triceps Motor Branch to Axillary Nerve Transfers.

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of triceps motor branch to axillary nerve transfers and to identify prognostic factors which may influence these outcomes. A retrospective cohort included all patients who underwent a triceps motor branch to axillary nerve transfer (2010-2019) with at least 12 months of follow-up. The primary outcome measure was shoulder abduction strength assessed with British Medical Research Council (MRC) grade. Ten patients were included with a mean follow-up of 19.1 (SD 5.9) months. Compared with preoperative MRC shoulder abduction strength (0.2 SD 0.4), patients significantly improved postoperatively (2.8 SD 1.6; P = .005). Increased body mass index (BMI) was significantly associated with worse postoperative MRC (P = .014). Triceps motor branch to axillary nerve transfer is a beneficial procedure for restoring shoulder function in patients presenting with either isolated axillary nerve or brachial plexus pathology. Patients with elevated BMI may not have as robust strength recovery and should be counseled carefully regarding prognosis.

Transfer of Soleus Muscular Branch of Tibial Nerve to Deep Fibular Nerve to Repair Foot Drop After Common Peroneal Nerve Injury: A Retrospective Study.

ObjectiveCommon peroneal nerve (CPN) injury that leads to foot drop is difficult to manage and treat. We present a new strategy for management of foot drop after CPN injury. The soleus muscular branch of the tibial nerve is directly transferred to the deep fibular nerve, providing partial restoration of motor function.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed eight patients treated for CPN injury between 2017 and 2019. The soleus muscular branch of the tibial nerve was transferred to the deep fibular nerve to repair foot drop. Electrophysiology was conducted, and motor function was assessed. Motor function was evaluated by measuring leg muscle strength during ankle dorsiflexion using the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) grading system and electromyography (EMG).ResultsIn 10–15 months postoperatively, EMG revealed newly appearing electrical potentials in the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor toe longus muscle (N = 7). Two patients achieved BMRC grade of M4 for ankle dorsiflexion, 2 patients achieved M3, 1 patient achieved M2, and 2 patients achieved M1. Four patients showed good functional recovery after surgery and could walk and participate in activities without ankle-foot orthotics.ConclusionSurgical transfer of the soleus muscular branch of the tibial nerve to the deep fibular nerve after CPN injury provides variable improvements in ankle dorsiflexion strength. Despite variable strength gains, 50% of patients achieved BMRC M3 or greater motor recovery, which enabled them to walk without assistive devices.

Surgical Management of Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injuries in the Pediatric Population

To evaluate demographics, treatment options, and outcomes of traumatic brachial plexus injuries in pediatric patients. Traumatic brachial plexus reconstructions in patients ≤17 years old were reviewed. Patients were stratified into pan-plexus and incomplete plexus injuries. Functional outcomes (modified British Medical Research Council grade) were reviewed after a minimum follow-up of 9 months. Brachial plexus reconstruction was performed in 71 patients at a mean age of 13.9 years (range, 2-17 years). Approximately half of the patients had a pan-brachial plexus injury (n= 33, 46.5%) with 59.2% having at least 1 preganglionic avulsion injury. Among the 25 patients with pan-brachial plexus injuries who had >9 months of follow-up, 12 (48%), 24 (96%), and 17 (68%) had reconstruction surgery for shoulder, elbow, and grasp function, respectively. At last follow-up, 50%, 83%, and 29% of these patients had a modified British Medical Research Council grade ≥3 in shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, and grasp, respectively. Of the 31 patients with incomplete brachial plexus injuries, 28 (90%) underwent reconstruction for shoulder function, and 13 (42%) underwent surgery for elbow flexion. At last follow-up, 71% and 100% of patients had modified British Medical Research Council grade 3 in shoulder abduction and elbow flexion, respectively. Pediatric traumatic brachial plexus injuries are often high-energy injuries resulting in nerve root avulsions. Most patients were able to regain antigravity elbow flexion or stronger after brachial plexus reconstruction, and more than half had similar improvement in shoulder function. Treatment should be directed with goals of elbow flexion, shoulder stability/external rotation, and rudimentary grasp.

Outcomes of Shoulder Functions in Spinal Accessory to Suprascapular Nerve Transfer in Brachial Plexus Injury: A Comparison between Anterior and Posterior Approach.

Background Restoration of shoulder functions is important in brachial plexus injury (BPI). The functional outcomes of spinal accessory nerve (SAN) to suprascapular nerve (SSN) transfer by the anterior supraclavicular approach and the posterior approach is a matter of debate. This article aims to compare the outcomes of the shoulder functions by the SAN to the SSN transfer using the two approaches. Methods Retrospective data was collected in 34 patients who underwent SAN to SSN transfer from January 2016 to June 2018. Group A included 16 patients who underwent nerve transfers by anterior approach, and Group B included 18 patients who underwent nerve transfers by posterior approach. Functional outcomes were measured by grading the muscle power as per the British Medical Research Council (MRC) grading (graded as M) and the range of motions (ROM) of the shoulder at 6 months and 18 months. Results Early recovery was seen in group B with 7 patients (39%) showing M1 abduction power at 6 months as compared with one patient (6%) in group A . This difference was statistically significant ( p value = 0.04). At 18 months, 10 patients (62%) in group A had good recovery (MRC grade ≥3), while 13 patients (72%) in group B had a good recovery. This difference was not found to be statistically significant (Fisher exact test p value = 0.71) There was no statistical difference in the outcomes of ROM in shoulder abduction, external rotation, and motor power at 18 months of follow-up. Conclusions Early recovery was observed in the posterior approach group at 6 months, however, there was no significant difference in the outcomes of shoulder functions in muscle power and ROM in the two groups at 18 months of follow-up.

Microalbuminuria and serum CRP: potential biomarkers for cardiovascular risk among stable COPD

Background: Cardiovascular disease is one of the major causes of mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Both microalbuminuria (MAB) and raised serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have strong association with cardiovascular events as they reflect generalized endothelial vascular dysfunction. The objectives of the study are (i) to assess the prevalence of MAB and serum CRP levels in stable COPD patients and (ii) to find out the relationship of MAB and serum CRP with clinical and physiological parameters in COPD patients. Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study was carried out on COPD patients attending OPD at Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Jaipur during the year from 2019 to 2020. Forty stable COPD patients and 40 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Spot urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, serum CRP levels, smoking history, spirometry, blood gases, body mass index, and BMI, Obstruction (FEV1% predicted), Dyspnea (mMRC grading), Exercise Capacity (6 MWD) (BODE) index were assessed. Results: Out of 40 cases, 23(56%) had MAB and 38 (95%) had serum CRP levels >3 mg/L. There was a negative correlation between forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2) levels and 6 MWD with both MAB levels and S.CRP levels respectively. There was a positive correlation between BODE Index and modified British Medical Research Council grading with both MAB levels and serum C reactive protein (S.CRP) levels respectively. There was a positive correlation between BODE index and modified British Medical Research Council grading with both MAB and S.CRP levels. Conclusion: COPD patients of varying severity should be screened regularly with MAB and serum CRP levels to determine the risk and progression of cardiovascular consequences so that adequate decision of interventional strategies can be taken out to prolong survival in COPD patients.

Surgical management of pediatric patients with peripheral nerve and plexus lesions caused by stray bullets.

Children and adolescents are frequent victims of gunshot wounds (GSW), either by direct intent or accidentaly. Lesions caused by stray bullets represent a specific type of accidental GSW and are usually associated with urban violence or aerial firing. We thereby present a series of surgically treated pediatric patients with peripheral nerve and brachialplexus lesions caused by stray bullets, referring to their clinical presentation, surgical procedures, and outcomes. Retrospective study of a series of seven pediatric patients treated from 2012 to 2019 for nerve and/or plexus lesions caused by stray bullets at the Peripheral Nerve Unit of the Division of Neurosurgery of Gaffrée e Guinle University Hospital (HUGG). We used the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to evaluate pain distress and the British Medical Research Council grading system (BMRC) to assess muscle strength. Patients' ages ranged from 6 to 17 years old (median of 16), and two were female. All presented preoperatively with intense pain, with a median VAS of 9 (range 7 to 10), and six also had neurological deficits. External neurolysis was conducted in all cases, whereas reconstruction with grafts was needed in four patients. All experienced improvement of pain, and those with motor deficits also experienced some level of recovery. Pediatric patients who endure lesions by stray bullets appear to present with debilitating pain, and often with motor deficits. Multidisciplinary management comprising of surgical treatment and physical and occupational therapy may ameliorate symptoms and improve quality of life, as young patients usually fare better after surgery.

Endoscopic brachial plexus neurolysis in the management of infraclavicular nerve injuries due to glenohumeral dislocation

IntroductionInfraclavicular brachial plexus (BP) injury secondary to glenohumeral joint (GHJ) dislocation is a rather common complication, which may be accountable for long-lasting deficits. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential benefits of BP neurolysis in such presentation, using an endoscopic approach. Materials and methodsAll patients who underwent endoscopic BP neurolysis in the setting of infraclavicular BP palsy due to GHJ dislocation were included. Preoperative physical examination was conducted to classify the observed motor and sensitive deficits into nerves and/or cord lesions. Six weeks after the trauma, examination was repeated and endoscopic BP neurolysis was elected if no significant improvements were observed. If nerve ruptures and/or severe damages were identified during surgery, nerve reconstructions were conducted within a month; in other cases, follow-up examinations were conducted at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months to assess the course of postoperative recovery. ResultsEleven patients were included, including 6 men and 5 women, with a mean age of 43 ± 23 years (16;73). Six patients had at least one cord involved, four patients had isolated axillary nerve palsy, and one patient had a complete BP palsy. In 7 patients with cord lesions and/or isolated axillary nerve palsy, at least grade-3 strength, according to the British Medical Research Council grading system, was noted in all affected muscles within 6 weeks following the neurolysis; after 3 months of follow-up, grade-4 strength was observed in all muscles, and all but patients but one had fully recovered within 6 months. In 3 patients with isolated axillary nerve palsy, complete nerve ruptures (n=2) and severe damages (n=1) were identified under scopic magnification; secondary nerve transfers were conducted to reanimate the axillary nerve, and all patients fully recovered within a year. In one patient with complete BP palsy, improvements started after 6 months of follow-up, and full recovery was yielded after 2 years. No intra- and/or postoperative complications were noted. ConclusionsAt the cost of minimal additional morbidity, endoscopic BP neurolysis appears to be a safe and reliable procedure to shorten recovery delays in most patients presenting with BP palsy due to GHJ dislocation.

Anterior Interosseous-to-Ulnar Motor Nerve Transfers: A Single Center's Experience in Restoring Intrinsic Hand Function.

Background: Transfer of the anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) into the ulnar motor branch improves intrinsic hand function in patients with high ulnar nerve injuries. We report our outcomes of this nerve transfer and hypothesize that any improvement in intrinsic hand function is beneficial to patients. Methods: A retrospective review of all AIN-to-ulnar motor nerve transfers, including both supercharged end-to-side (SETS) and end-to-end (ETE) transfers, from 2011 to 2018 performed by 2 surgeons was conducted. All adult patients who underwent this nerve transfer for any reason with greater than 6 months' follow-up and completed charts were included. Primary outcome measures were motor function using the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) grading system and subjective satisfaction with surgery using a visual analog scale. Secondary outcome measures included complications and donor site deficits. Results: Of the 57 patients who underwent nerve transfer, 32 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average follow-up and average time to surgery were 12 and 15.6 months, respectively. The overall average BMRC score was 2.9/5, with a trend toward better recovery in patients who received earlier surgery (<12 months = BMRC 3.7, ≥12 months = BMRC 2.2; P < .01). Patients with an SETS transfer had better results that those with an ETE transfer (SETS = 3.2, ETE = 2.6). There were no donor deficits after operation. One patient developed complex regional pain syndrome. Conclusions: Patients with earlier surgery and an in-continuity nerve (receiving an SETS transfer) showed improved recovery with a higher BMRC grade compared with those who underwent later surgery. Any improvements in intrinsic hand function would be beneficial to patients.

Surgical Management of Thoracolumbar Spondylodiscitis in End-Stage Renal Disease.

In recent times due to the advancement of haemodialysis techniques, there is increase in the life span of the patients with end-stage renal disease, which tends to increase the risk of complications of bacteraemia due to skin penetration for blood access and leading to propensity for more skeletal and spinal complications. Hence, early diagnosis of spine infection and early initiation of appropriate therapy are important in ensuring successful treatment and preventing further morbidity. The study included 22 males and 12 females who were known case of end-stage renal disease undergoing haemodialysis therapy and diagnosed with spondylodiscitis based on the clinical and radiological signs. The included patients required surgical stabilization based on the instability, neurological status, and epidural abscess, and non-responsive to medical line of treatment. To measure the degree of pain, Visual Analog Scale was used and British Medical Research Council grading system was used for motor evaluation. Radiography was undertaken one immediately and later at 1, 3, 9, and 12months and at yearly interval thereafter. Fusion assessment was done by features of consolidation of graft and absence of loosening of implants in both anteroposterior and lateral views will be an indirect evidence of fusion in short-term follow-up. Average age of the patients was 62years (range 40-75years). Twenty-two patients were male (64.7%) and twelve (35.3%) were female. Sixteen patients had diabetes mellitus and fifteen patients had chronic glomerulonephritis with various underlying causes. All patients presented with back pain with a duration range from 3 to 8weeks. 13 patients gave a history of on/off fever which was mild grade and 3 patients with high-grade fever. Eighteen patients presented with neurological deficits. The most common organism isolated was Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). At the final follow-up, radiographs revealed a good interbody fusion in 30 of the 34 cases, with 3 cases showed delayed fusion. The mean hemoglobin (Hb) level was 8.8g/dl and elevated total leucocyte level with mean of 14,425; mean C-reactive protein (CRP) level was 55.6mg/dl and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was 47.5. All patients showed improvement in back pain. Preoperatively, the VAS had a mean of 8.5; post-operatively on day 2, the mean VAS was 3.2, and on 1month follow-up mean VAS was 2.4. In end-stage renal disease patients presenting with back pain, the diagnosis and treatment of spondylodiscitis becomes difficult. Where fever may not be a presenting feature even in cases with severe destructive osteomyelitis, and at times presenting as latent infection. Hence, spinal infection should be suspected as a possible cause of back pain in patients presenting with ESRD, even if they are presenting without fever and MRI study should be performed for the early diagnosis. Surgical intervention with debridement and posterior instrumentation should be considered as a modality of treatment in all cases of spondylodiscitis, with improved clinical outcome in terms of functionality, disability, and rehabilitation and acceptable complication rates in the perioperative period which can be adjusted to the individual cases.

Comparative Study of Intercostal Nerve and Contralateral C7 Nerve Transfers for Elbow Extension After Global Brachial Plexus Avulsion.

Elbow extensive reconstruction was essential for the patients with brachial plexus avulsion. Nerve transfer was applied to repair elbow extension, but the ultimate recovery was quite different. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of elbow extension in patients with global brachial plexus avulsion after repaired by intercostal nerve (ICN) and contralateral cervical 7 (cC7) nerve transfer to the long head branch of triceps and to analyze the possible influencing factors. A retrospective review of 24 patients treated with ICN and cC7 nerve transfer for elbow extension in posttraumatic global brachial plexus avulsion was carried out. Two ICNs were used as donors in 17 patients, and cC7 nerve was used in the other 7 patients. We evaluated the recovery of elbow extension by the British Medical Research Council grading system and electromyography. The correlation between age, preoperative interval, and prognosis was analyzed in this study. Efficiency of elbow extensor strength in the ICN transfer group was 47.06%, and it was 28.57% in the cC7 nerve transfer group, but there was no significant difference (P = 0.653). The effective recovery of electromyography in ICN transfer group was 82.35%, whereas in the group cC7 nerve transfer, it was 28.57%, there was a statistical difference between the 2 groups (P = 0.021). Age and interval were negatively correlated with prognosis. Intercostal nerve or cC7 nerve transfer to the long head branch of triceps could reconstruct elbow extension to some extent. Compared with cC7 nerve transfer, ICN transfer had a greater result for elbow extension, but the difference in extension power was not significant, whereas there was difference in electromyography recovery. Patient's age and interval were negatively correlated with the results.