NEONATAL BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURIES

What are neonatal brachial plexus injuries?

The brachial plexus refers to the grouping of the nerves that exit the spinal cord to reconnect as peripheral nerves to the arm. In neonatal brachial plexus injuries, the nerves are stretched during an obstructive labour process. This presents as a flail or weak upper limb with minimal shoulder and elbow movements. The classic Erb Palsy affects the upper two nerve roots (C5 & C6), where the baby presents with no shoulder abduction (lifting the arm to the side) and no elbow flexion (bending), with or without the ability to lift the wrist. The arm usually hangs and is not used. Risk factors include a large foetus, small or obese mothers, gestational diabetes, shoulder dystocia and instrumented deliveries.

What are the related symptoms of neonatal brachial plexus injuries?

Signs and symptoms of neonatal brachial plexus injuries may include full or partial lack of movement, a weakened grip, numbness and an odd position where the arm may bend towards the body or hang limp.

How are neonatal brachial plexus injuries treated?

The injury is usually a stretch of the nerve and has the potential to heal over time. The challenge is that it is difficult to predict whether a child will regain the limb's function. Internationally, there is consensus that it is unlikely that there will be any recovery if elbow flexion has not recovered by 4-6 months. In these cases, Dr van der Spuy may recommend surgical reconstruction earlier rather than later. Surgical brachial plexus reconstruction in the past focused on brachial plexus exploration and nerve grafting. There is a fresh interest in nerve transfers (popularised in adult reconstruction) for reconstruction (away from the brachial plexus), which yields quicker and more predictable results.

There is very little to do to enhance recovery, but the orthopaedic hand surgeon will educate the parents on how to keep the infant's limb mobile (especially the shoulder) to prevent contractures. A physiotherapist can assist with providing developmental input and teach parents correct handling of the infant. Regular evaluations with the hand specialist are very important to correlate trends and to ensure that surgical intervention (if needed) is performed at the right time.

FAQ

1What are the signs of a brachial plexus injury in a newborn baby?
  • Paralysis in the upper limb
  • Weak muscles
2Can a newborn heal from a brachial plexus injury?
A newborn can regain motion and sensation in the affected limb with physical therapy. You can help the baby by performing exercises the doctor prescribes at home to recover from the injury.
3How do you treat a brachial plexus injury in newborns?
If the baby does not show improvement after physical therapy, your surgeon will advise surgery. Surgery is recommended between three to nine months of age.

Please read the above text for more in-depth information to help answer these questions. It's important to consult with our qualified healthcare professionals to ensure the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan for your specific situation.