Abstract
In the last decade several advances have been added in the reconstruction of devastating
brachial plexus injuries. This includes better understanding of the anatomy, advances
in the imaging techniques, use of newer materials for nerve coaptation (e.g., fibrin
glue), introduction of nerve conduits, incorporation of new immunosuppressive agents
such as FK-506 and addition of new nerve transfers which selectively neurotize the
target muscles close to the motor end plates. These new techniques have considerably
improved the results of brachial plexus reconstruction, in particular, the upper plexal
lesions.
Keywords
brachial plexus injuries - nerve repair - selective neurotization - nerve conduits
- fibrin glue