Current Concepts of the Treatment of Adult Brachial Plexus Injuries

As the number of survivors of motor vehicle accidents and extreme sporting accidents increases, the number of people having to live with brachial plexus injuries increases. Although the injured limb will never return to normal, an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of nerve injury and repair, as well as advances in microsurgical techniques, have enabled the upper extremity reconstructive surgeon an opportunity to improve function in these life-altering injuries. The purpose of this review is to detail some of the current concepts of the treatment of adult brachial plexus injuries and give the reader an understanding of the nuances of the timing, available treatment options, and outcomes of treatment. (J Hand Surg 2010;35A:678-688. Copyright (C) 2010 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.)