Garozzo D

Language: Spanish
References: 2
Page: 7-16
PDF size: 256.29 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Injuries to the brachial plexus are mainly due to traction mechanisms and a smaller proportion by compression. Increased frequency of avulsions corresponds to the lower roots C8 and T1, while those superiors suffer a forced stretch or break. This rupture can occur in the emerge nerve at the vertebral foramen, distal to long trunks, the fascicles or in the Plexus terminal branches. Most of the patients with traumatic brachial plexus injuries are often polytrauma. Clinical and radiological signs indicative of avulsion of the roots such as the muscle paralysis of the rhomboid or the Serratus anterior, paralysis of the Phrenic nerve, Horner Syndrome, deafferentation pain, injury of long nerves and presence of Meningocele external. Brachial plexus lesions can be classified according to the clinical findings in: paralysis of upper Plexus, paralysis of lower Plexus, Infra-clavicular Plexus injuries and total injuries of Plexus brachial. The first choice in diagnostic imaging techniques help studies is Myelo-MRI, this is reliable in 90 cases. Electrophysiological studies advise them make between the 3rd and 4th weeks after the trauma. When Clinical and electrophysiological examination findings confirm the presence of root avulsions, should indicate the exploration and surgical repair of the Brachial Plexus at soon is possible.

REFERENCES

1. Coene LN. Mechanisms of brachial plexus lesions. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 1993; 95(Suppl.): 24-29.

2. Gasparotti R, Garozzo D, Ferraresi S. Radiographic assessment of adult brachial plexus injuries. En: Chung KC, Yang L, McGillicuddy J. Practical management of pediatric and adult brachial plexus palsies. Elsevier Saunders, 2012: 235-246.