Functional recovery and orthopedic management of brachial plexus palsies
M. M. Hoffer, R. Braun, J. Hsu, M. Mitani and K. Temes
Functional recovery in 133 patients with brachial palsy is documented over
a five-year period. Clinical examination is more reliable than
electromyogram or myelogram for obtaining prognostic information. Erb's C
V, VI palsies have improved function with cuff transfers and elbow flexor
plasties. Posterior cord palsies often require extension plasties of the
hand and glenohumeral fusions. C V, VI, VII palsies may require all of
these procedures. Klumpke C VIII-T I palsies develop arm-trunk holding
power. Adults with total palsies often complain of continued pain, which
may be relieved by orthoses.
