The transplantation of embryonic stem cells can effectively improve the creeping strength of nerves near an injury site in animals. Amniotic epithelial cells have similar biological properties as em-bryonic stem cells...The transplantation of embryonic stem cells can effectively improve the creeping strength of nerves near an injury site in animals. Amniotic epithelial cells have similar biological properties as em-bryonic stem cells; therefore, we hypothesized that transplantation of amniotic epithelial cells can repair peripheral nerve injury and recover the creeping strength of the brachial plexus nerve. In the present study, a brachial plexus injury model was established in rabbits using the C6root avulsion method. A suspension of human amniotic epithelial cells was repeatedly injected over an area 4.0 mm lateral to the cephal and caudal ends of the C6 brachial plexus injury site （1 × 106 cells/mL, 3μL/injection, 25 injections） immediately after the injury. The results showed that the decrease in stress and increase in strain at 7,200 seconds in the injured rabbit C6 brachial plexus nerve were mitigated by the cell transplantation, restoring the viscoelastic stress relaxation and creep properties of the brachial plexus nerve. The forepaw functions were also signiifcantly improved at 26 weeks after injury. These data indicate that transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells can effec-tively restore the mechanical properties of the brachial plexus nerve after injury in rabbits and that viscoelasticity may be an important index for the evaluation of brachial plexus injury in animals.展开更多
Background In recent years, transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve has become a routine procedure for restoration of shoulder abduction. However, the operation via the traditional supraclavicula...Background In recent years, transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve has become a routine procedure for restoration of shoulder abduction. However, the operation via the traditional supraclavicular anterior approach often leads to partial denervation of the trapezius muscle. The purpose of the study was to introduce transfer of the spinal accessory nerve through dorsal approach, using distal branch of the spinal accessory nerve, to repair the suprascapular nerve for restoration of shoulder abduction, and to observe its therapeutic effect. Methods From January to October 2003, a total of 11 patients with a brachial plexus injury and an intact or nearly intact spinal accessory nerve were treated by .transferring the spinal accessory nerve to the suprascapular nerve through dorsal approach. The patients were followed up for 18 to 26 months [mean （23.5 ±5.2） months] to evaluate their shoulder abduction and function of the trapezius muscle. The outcomes were compared with those of 26 patients treated with traditional anterior approach. And the data were analyzed by Student＇s t test using SPSS 10.5.Results In the 11 patients, the spinal accessory nerves were transferred to the suprascapular nerve through the dorsal approach successfully. Intact function of the upper trapezius was achieved in all of them. In the patients, the location of the two nerves was relatively stable at the level of superior margin of the scapula, the mean distance between them was （4.2± 1.4） cm, both the nerves could be easily dissected and end-to-end anastomosed without any tension. During the follow-up, the first electrophysiological sign of recovery of the infraspinatus appeared at （6.8±2.7） months and the first sign of restoration of the shoulder abduction at （7.6±2.9） months after the operation, which were earlier than that after the traditional operation [（8.7±2.4） months and （9.9±2.8） months, respectively; P〈0.05]. The postoperative shoulder abduction was 62.8°±12.6° after transfer展开更多
Electroacupuncture has traditionally been used to treat pain, but its effect on pain following brachial plexus injury is still unknown. In this study, rat models of an avulsion injury to the left brachial plexus root ...Electroacupuncture has traditionally been used to treat pain, but its effect on pain following brachial plexus injury is still unknown. In this study, rat models of an avulsion injury to the left brachial plexus root （associated with upper-limb chronic neuropathic pain） were given electroacupuncture stimulation at bilateral Quchi （LIll）, Hegu （LI04）, Zusanli （ST36） and Yanglingquan （GB34）. After electroacupuncture therapy, chronic neuropathic pain in the rats＇ upper limbs was significantly attenuated. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the expression of β-endorphins in the arcuate nucleus was significantly increased after therapy. Thus, experimental findings indi- cate that electroacupuncture can attenuate neuropathic pain after brachial plexus injury through upregulating β-endorphin expression.展开更多
In spite of the fact that the Hippocrates method hardly has been evaluated in a scientific manner and numerous associated iatrogenic complications have been reported, this method remains to be one of the most common t...In spite of the fact that the Hippocrates method hardly has been evaluated in a scientific manner and numerous associated iatrogenic complications have been reported, this method remains to be one of the most common techniques for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations. We report the case of a 69-year-old farmer under coumarin anticoagulant therapy who sustained acute first time anterior dislocation of his dominant right shoulder. By using the Hippocrates method with the patient under general anaesthesia, the brachial vein was injured and an increasing hematoma subsequently caused brachial plexus paresis by pressure. After surgery for decompression and vascular suturing, symptoms declined rapidly, but brachial plexus paresis still was not fully reversible after 3 mo of follow-up. The hazardousness of using the Hippocrates method can be explained by traction on the outstretched arm with force of the operator's body weight, direct trauma to the axillary region by the physician's heel, and the topographic relations of neurovascular structures and the dislocated humeral head. As there is a variety of alternative reduction techniques which have been evalu-ated scientifically and proofed to be safe, we strongly caution against the use of the Hippocrates method as a first line technique for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations, especially in elder patients with fragile vessels or under anticoagulant therapy, and recommend the scapular manipulation technique or the Milch technique, for example, as a first choice.展开更多
Contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery is one of the most important surgical techniques for treating total brachial plexus nerve injury. In the traditional contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery, the whole ulnar ner...Contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery is one of the most important surgical techniques for treating total brachial plexus nerve injury. In the traditional contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery, the whole ulnar nerve on the paralyzed side is harvested for transfer, which completely sacrifices its potential of recovery. In the present, novel study, we report on the anatomical feasibility of a modified contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery. Ten fresh cadavers (4 males and 6 females) provided by the Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology at the Medical College of Fudan University, China were used in modified contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery. In this surgical model, only the dorsal and superficial branches of the ulnar nerve and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve on the paralyzed side (left) were harvested for grafting the contralateral (right) C7 nerve and the recipient nerves. Both the median nerve and deep branch of the ulnar nerve on the paralyzed (left) side were recipient nerves. To verify the feasibility of this surgery, the distances between each pair of coaptating nerve ends were measured by a vernier caliper. The results validated that starting point of the deep branch of ulnar nerve and the starting point of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve at the elbow were close to each other and could be readily anastomosed. We investigated whether the fiber number of donor and recipient nerves matched one another. The axons were counted in sections of nerve segments distal and proximal to the coaptation sites after silver impregnation. Averaged axon number of the ulnar nerve at the upper arm level was approximately equal to the sum of the median nerve and proximal end of medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve (left: 0.94:1;right: 0.93:1). In conclusion, the contralateral C7 nerve could be transferred to the median nerve but also to the deep branch of the ulnar nerve via grafts of the ulnar nerve without deep branch and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. The advantage over traditiona展开更多
There is a large amount of fat in the postganglionic segment of the brachial plexus nerve.The use of short T1 inversion recovery pulse sequence may improve signal strength of the brachial plexus postganglionic segment...There is a large amount of fat in the postganglionic segment of the brachial plexus nerve.The use of short T1 inversion recovery pulse sequence may improve signal strength of the brachial plexus postganglionic segment.The present study revealed that the combination of three-dimensional fast imaging employing steady-state acquisition with phase-cycled and short T1 inversion recovery pulse sequence clearly displayed the anatomical morphology and structure of the brachial plexus nerve,together with maximum intensity projection,volume rendering and other three-dimensional reconstruction techniques.Our results suggested that this method is also suitable for providing accurate assessment and diagnosis of the site,severity and scope of brachial plexus injury.展开更多
Background The ankle brachial index （ABI） is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive tool that correlates well with angiographic disease severity and functional symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify the manifes...Background The ankle brachial index （ABI） is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive tool that correlates well with angiographic disease severity and functional symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify the manifestation of lower extremity atherosclerotic lesions in patients with high ABI by retrospective clinical study.Methods A cohort of 184 diabetic patients, （63±14） years old, 144 males, who underwent simultaneously ABI testing and low extremity arterial duplex ultrasound within one week, were enrolled randomly into this study. According to the ABI value, they were divided into three groups： the high, normal and low ABI groups. The severity and location of atherosclerotic lesions in the lower extremity were determined based on the results of low extremity artery duplex ultrasound. The chi-square test was used to compare the atherosclerosis severity grade and lesion location across the three groups.Results The prevalence of low extremity artery occlusion was significantly lower in the high ABI group than in the low ABI group （3.3% vs. 63.5%, P〈0.01）, and the main atherosclerotic lesions were diffuse dot-like hyperechogenicity spots or small plaques （86.7%）. In addition, the atherosclerotic lesions were mostly found in the distal segment of the lower extremity in patients with high ABI （46.3%）.Conclusion A high ABI may be an integrative marker for intimal and medial calcification, which has a high positive predictive value for artery calcification.展开更多
Contralateral C7（cC7） root transfer to the healthy side is the main method for the treatment of brachial plexus root injury. A relatively new modification of this method involves cC7 root transfer to the lower trunk...Contralateral C7（cC7） root transfer to the healthy side is the main method for the treatment of brachial plexus root injury. A relatively new modification of this method involves cC7 root transfer to the lower trunk via the prespinal route. In the current study, we examined the effectiveness of this method using electrophysiological and histological analyses. To this end, we used a rat model of total brachial plexus injury, and cC7 root transfer was performed to either the lower trunk via the prespinal route or the median nerve via a subcutaneous tunnel to repair the injury. At 4, 8 and 12 weeks, the grasping test was used to measure the changes in grasp strength of the injured forepaw. Electrophysiological changes were examined in the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle. The change in the wet weight of the forearm flexor was also measured. Atrophy of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Toluidine blue staining was used to count the number of myelinated nerve fibers in the injured nerves. Compared with the traditional method, cC7 root transfer to the lower trunk via the prespinal route increased grasp strength of the injured forepaw, increased the compound muscle action potential maximum amplitude, shortened latency, substantially restored tetanic contraction of the forearm flexor muscles, increased the wet weight of the muscle, reduced atrophy of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle, and increased the number of myelinated nerve fibers. These findings demonstrate that for finger flexion functional recovery in rats with total brachial plexus injury, transfer of the cC7 root to the lower trunk via the prespinal route is more effective than transfer to the median nerve via subcutaneous tunnel.展开更多
Background The use of traditional techniques （such as landmark techniques, paresthesia and peripheral nerve stimulator） for upper-limb anesthesia has often been restricted to the expert or enthusiast, which was blin...Background The use of traditional techniques （such as landmark techniques, paresthesia and peripheral nerve stimulator） for upper-limb anesthesia has often been restricted to the expert or enthusiast, which was blind. Recently, ultrasound （US） has been applied to differ blood vessel, pleura and nerve, thus may reduce the risk of complications while have a high rate of success. The aim of this study was to determine if the use of ultrasound guidance （vs. peripheral nerve stimulator, （PNS）） decreases risk of vascular puncture, risk of hemi-diaphragmatic paresis and risk of Homer syndrome and improves the success rate of nerve block. Methods A search strategy was developed to identify randomized control trials （RCTs） reporting on complications of US and PNS guidance for upper-extremity peripheral nerve blocks （brachial plexus） in adults available through PubMed databases, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase databases, SinoMed databases and Wanfang data （date up to 2011-12-20）. Two independent reviewers appraised eligible studies and extracted data. Risk ratios （OR） were calculated for each outcome and presented with 95% confidence intervals （CI） with the software of Review Manager 5.1.0 System （Cochrane Library）. Results Sixteen trials involving 1321 adults met our criteria were included for analysis. Blocks performed using US guidance were more likely to be successful （risk ratio （RR） for block success 0.36, 95% CI 0.23-0.56, P 〈0.00001）, decreased incidence of vascular puncture during block performance （RR 0.13, 95% CI 0.06-0.27, P 〈0.00001）, decreased the risk of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paresis （RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.03-0.52, P=-0.0001）. Conclusions US decreases risks of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paresis or vascular puncture and improves success rate of brachial plexus nerve block compared with techniques that utilize PNS for nerve localization. Larger studies are needed to determine whether or not the use of US can decrease risk展开更多
Research on brain function after brachial plexus injury focuses on local cortical functional reorganization,and few studies have focused on brain networks after brachial plexus injury.Changes in brain networks may hel...Research on brain function after brachial plexus injury focuses on local cortical functional reorganization,and few studies have focused on brain networks after brachial plexus injury.Changes in brain networks may help understanding of brain plasticity at the global level.We hypothesized that topology of the global cerebral resting-state functional network changes after unilateral brachial plexus injury.Thus,in this cross-sectional study,we recruited eight male patients with unilateral brachial plexus injury（right handedness,mean age of 27.9±5.4years old）and eight male healthy controls（right handedness,mean age of 28.6±3.2）.After acquiring and preprocessing resting-state magnetic resonance imaging data,the cerebrum was divided into 90 regions and Pearson’s correlation coefficient calculated between regions.These correlation matrices were then converted into a binary matrix with affixed sparsity values of 0.1–0.46.Under sparsity conditions,both groups satisfied this small-world property.The clustering coefficient was markedly lower,while average shortest path remarkably higher in patients compared with healthy controls.These findings confirm that cerebral functional networks in patients still show smallworld characteristics,which are highly effective in information transmission in the brain,as well as normal controls.Alternatively,varied small-worldness suggests that capacity of information transmission and integration in different brain regions in brachial plexus injury patients is damaged.展开更多
If a partial contralateral C7 nerve is transferred to a recipient injured nerve, results are not satisfactory. However, if an entire contralateral C7 nerve is used to repair two nerves, both recipient nerves show goo...If a partial contralateral C7 nerve is transferred to a recipient injured nerve, results are not satisfactory. However, if an entire contralateral C7 nerve is used to repair two nerves, both recipient nerves show good recovery. These findings seem contradictory, as the above two methods use the same donor nerve, only the cutting method of the contralateral C7 nerve is different. To verify whether this can actually result in different repair effects, we divided rats with right total brachial plexus injury into three groups. In the entire root group, the entire contralateral C7 root was transected and transferred to the median nerve of the affected limb. In the posterior division group, only the posterior division of the contralateral C7 root was transected and transferred to the median nerve. In the entire root ＋ posterior division group, the entire contralateral C7 root was transected but only the posterior division was transferred to the median nerve. After neurectomy,the median nerve was repaired on the affected side in the three groups. At 8, 12, and 16 weeks postoperatively, electrophysiological examination showed that maximum amplitude, latency, muscle tetanic contraction force, and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle were significantly better in the entire root and entire root ＋ posterior division groups than in the posterior division group. No significant difference was found between the entire root and entire root ＋ posterior division groups. Counts of myelinated axons in the median nerve were greater in the entire root group than in the entire root ＋ posterior division group, which were greater than the posterior division group. We conclude that for the same recipient nerve, harvesting of the entire contralateral C7 root achieved significantly better recovery than partial harvesting, even if only part of the entire root was used for transfer. This result indicates that the entire root should be used as a donor when transferring contralateral C7 ne展开更多
Background Contralateral C7 （cC7） transfer had been widely used in many organizations in the world, but the outcomes were significantly different. So the purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of patients ...Background Contralateral C7 （cC7） transfer had been widely used in many organizations in the world, but the outcomes were significantly different. So the purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of patients treated with cC7 transferring to median nerve and to determine the factors affecting the outcome of this procedure.展开更多
Brachial plexus avulsion often results in massive motor neuron death and severe functional deficits of target muscles. However, no satisfactory treatment is currently available. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is a criti...Brachial plexus avulsion often results in massive motor neuron death and severe functional deficits of target muscles. However, no satisfactory treatment is currently available. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is a critical molecule targeting several genes associated with ischemia-hypoxia damage and angiogenesis. In this study, a rat model of brachial plexus avulsion-reimplantation was established, in which C5–7 ventral nerve roots were avulsed and only the C6 root reimplanted. Different implants were immediately injected using a microsyringe into the avulsion-reimplantation site of the C6 root post-brachial plexus avulsion. Rats were randomly divided into five groups: phosphate-buffered saline, negative control of lentivirus, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α(hypoxia-inducible factor 1α overexpression lentivirus), gel(pluronic F-127 hydrogel), and gel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α(pluronic F-127 hydrogel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α overexpression lentivirus). The Terzis grooming test was performed to assess recovery of motor function. Scores were higher in the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and gel +hypoxia-inducible factor 1α groups(in particular the gel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α group) compared with the phosphate-buffered saline group. Electrophysiology, fluorogold retrograde tracing, and immunofluorescent staining were further performed to investigate neural pathway reconstruction and changes of neurons, motor endplates, and angiogenesis. Compared with the phosphate-buffered saline group, action potential latency of musculocutaneous nerves was markedly shortened in the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and gel + hypoxia-inducible factor1α groups. Meanwhile, the number of fluorogold-positive cells and ChAT-positive neurons, neovascular area(labeled by CD31 around av ulsed sites in ipsilateral spinal cord segments), and the number of motor endplates in biceps brachii(identified by α-bungarotoxin) were all visibly increased, as well as the morphology of motor endplate in biceps brachil was clear in the hypoxia-i展开更多
This study aimed to investigate the reconstruction of the thumb and finger extension function in patients with middle and lower trunk root avulsion injuries of the brachial plexus. From April 2010 to January 2015, we ...This study aimed to investigate the reconstruction of the thumb and finger extension function in patients with middle and lower trunk root avulsion injuries of the brachial plexus. From April 2010 to January 2015, we enrolled in this study 4 patients diagnosed with middle and lower trunk root avulsion injuries of the brachial plexus via imaging tests, electrophysiological examinations, and clinical confirmation. Muscular branches of the radial nerve, which innervate the supinator in the forearm, were transposed to the posterior interosseous nerve to reconstruct the thumb and finger extension function. Electrophysiological findings and muscle strength of the extensor pollicis longus and extensor digitorum communis, as well as the distance between the thumb tip and index finger tip, were monitored. All patients were followed up for 24 to 30 months, with an average of 27.5 months. Motor unit potentials（MUP） of the extensor digitorum communis appeared at an average of 3.8 months, while MUP of the extensor pollicis longus appeared at an average of 7 months. Compound muscle action potential（CMAP） appeared at an average of 9 months in the extensor digitorum communis, and 12 months in the extensor pollicis longus. Furthermore, the muscle strength of the extensor pollicis longus and extensor digitorum communis both reached grade Ⅲ at 21 months. Lastly, the average distance between the thumb tip and index finger tip was 8.8 cm at 21 months. In conclusion, for patients with middle and lower trunk injuries of the brachial plexus, transposition of the muscular branches of the radial nerve innervating the supinator to the posterior interosseous nerve for the reconstruction of thumb and finger extension function is practicable and feasible.展开更多
Objective: Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to observe the influence of the up-transmitting of acupuncture signal into the brain in health volunteers whose nerve trunk was blocked by anesthetic...Objective: Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to observe the influence of the up-transmitting of acupuncture signal into the brain in health volunteers whose nerve trunk was blocked by anesthetics. Methods: Thirty-one healthy volunteers were divided into two groups, the control group of 20 cases, and the brachial plexus blockade (BPB) group of 11 cases, with supraclavicular BPB route adopted. With the control group 2 acupoints were randomly selected (Hegu and Quchi of both sides), while with the BPB group Hegu and Quchi of anesthetic arm side were selected. Siemens ECAM/ ICON SPECT system was used to conduct brain imaging using double imaging assay before acupuncture and 99mTc-ECD imaging agent during acupuncture for cerebral perfusion. The data were quantitatively analyzed by blood functional changing rate (BFCR%) mathematics model. Results: Before acupuncture, the control and BPB groups showed insignificant change by SPECT, but after electro-acupuncture (EA), the control group displayed improved motor and sensory cortex excitability in basal nuclei, contra-lateral thal-amus, parietal and frontal lobe; while BPB group was characterized with reduction of the blood perfusion and cell function of contra-lateral thalamus of anesthetized arm. The difference between the two groups was significant (P<0.01) . Conclusion: (1) After BPB, the up-transmitting of the acupuncture signal via upper limb into the brain, and its strength was impaired or blocked; (2) After BPB, the effect of acupuncture on cerebral perfusion and brain cell function of contra-lateral thalamus was impaired or blocked.展开更多
Background There are few effective methods for treating injuries to the lower trunk of brachial plexus, and the curative effect is usually poor. The purpose of this study was to provide anatomic references for transfe...Background There are few effective methods for treating injuries to the lower trunk of brachial plexus, and the curative effect is usually poor. The purpose of this study was to provide anatomic references for transferring the brachialis muscle branch of musculocutaneous nerve （BMBMCN） for selective neurotization of finger flexion in brachial plexus lower trunk injury, and to evaluate its clinical curative effects.Methods Microanatomy and measurement were done on 50 limbs from 25 adult human cadavers to observe the origin, branch, type of the BMBMCN and median nerve, as well as their adjacent structures. Internal topographic features of the fascicular groups of the median nerve at the level of the BMBMCN were observed. In addition, the technique of BMBMCN transfer for selective neurotization of finger flexion of the median nerve was designed and tested in 6 fresh adult human cadavers. Acetylcholinesterase （AchE） staining of the BMBMCN and median nerve was done to observe the features of the nerve fibers. This technique was clinically tried to restore digital flexion in 6 cases of adult brachial plexus lower trunk injury. These cases were followed up for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. Recovery of function, grip strength, nerve electrophysiology and muscle power of the affected limbs were observed and measured.Results The brachialis muscle was totally innervated by the musculocutaneous nerve （MCN）. Based on the Hunter＇s line, the level of the origin of the BMBMCN was （13.18±.2.77）cm. Ache histochemical staining indicated that the BMBMCN were totally made up of medullated nerve fibers. At the level of the BMBMCN, the median nerve consistently collected into three fascicular groups as shown by microanatomy in combination with Ache stain. The posterior fascicular group was mainly composed of anterior interosseous nerves and branches to the palmaris Iongus. The technique was tested in six fresh cadavers successfully, except that stoma split occurred in one case. Five of the six cases recovere展开更多
Background Brachial plexus injury is one of the difficult medical problems in the world. The aim of this study was to observe the clinical therapeutic effect of comprehensive rehabilitation in treating dysfunction aft...Background Brachial plexus injury is one of the difficult medical problems in the world. The aim of this study was to observe the clinical therapeutic effect of comprehensive rehabilitation in treating dysfunction after brachial plexus injury. Methods Forty-three cases of dysfunction after brachial plexus injury were divided into two groups randomly. The treatment group, which totaled 21 patients （including 14 cases of total brachial plexus injury and seven cases of branch brachial plexus injury）, was treated with comprehensive rehabilitation including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, mid-frequency electrotherapy, Tuina therapy, and occupational therapy. The control group, which totaled 22 patients （including 16 cases of total brachial plexus injury and six cases of branch brachial plexus injury）, was treated with home-based electrical nerve stimulation and occupational therapy. Each course was of 30 days duration and the patients received four courses totally. After four courses, the rehabilitation effect was evaluated according to the brachial plexus function evaluation standard and electromyogram （EMG） assessment. Results In the treatment group, there was significant difference in the scores of brachial plexus function pre- and post-treatment （P 〈0.01） in both ＂total＂ and ＂branch＂ injury. The scores of two ＂total injury＂ groups had statistical differences （P 〈0.01）, while the scores of two ＂branch injury＂ groups had statistical differences （P 〈0.05） after four courses. EMG suggested that the appearance of regeneration potentials of the recipient nerves in the treatment group was earlier than the control group and had significant differences （P 〈0.05）. Conclusion Comprehensive rehabilitation was more effective in treating dysfunction after brachial plexus injury than nonintegrated rehabilitation.展开更多
Despite recent great progress in diagnosis and microsurgical repair, the prognosis in total brachial plexus-avulsion injury remains unfavorable.Insufficient number of donors and unreasonable use of donor nerves might ...Despite recent great progress in diagnosis and microsurgical repair, the prognosis in total brachial plexus-avulsion injury remains unfavorable.Insufficient number of donors and unreasonable use of donor nerves might be key factors. To identify an optimal treatment strategy for this condition, we conducted a retrospective review. Seventy-three patients with total brachial plexus avulsion injury were followed up for an average of 7.3 years. Our analysis demonstrated no significant difference in elbow-flexion recovery between phrenic nerve-transfer （25 cases）, phrenic nerve-graft （19 cases）, intercostal nerve （17 cases）, or contralateral C7-transfer （12 cases） groups. Restoration of shoulder function was attempted through anterior accessory nerve （27 cases）, posterior accessory nerve （10 cases）, intercostal nerve （5 cases）, or accessory ＋ intercostal nerve transfer （31 cases）. Accessory nerve ＋ intercostal nerve transfer was the most effective method. A significantly greater amount of elbow extension was observed in patients with intercostal nerve transfer （25 cases） than in those with contralateral C7 transfer （10 cases）. Recovery of median nerve function was noticeably better for those who received entire contralateral C7 transfer （33 cases） than for those who received partial contralateral C7 transfer （40 cases）. Wrist and finger extension were reconstructed by intercostal nerve transfer （31 cases）. Overall, the recommended surgical treatment for total brachial plexus-avulsion injury is phrenic nerve transfer for elbow flexion, accessory nerve ＋ intercostal nerve transfer for shoulder function, intercostal nerves transfer for elbow extension, entire contralateral C7 transfer for median nerve function, and intercostal nerve transfer for finger extension. The trial was registered at Clinical-Trials.gov （identifier： NCT03166033）.展开更多
基金financially supported by grants from the Science and Technology Development Plan Program of Jilin Province of China,No.20110492
文摘The transplantation of embryonic stem cells can effectively improve the creeping strength of nerves near an injury site in animals. Amniotic epithelial cells have similar biological properties as em-bryonic stem cells; therefore, we hypothesized that transplantation of amniotic epithelial cells can repair peripheral nerve injury and recover the creeping strength of the brachial plexus nerve. In the present study, a brachial plexus injury model was established in rabbits using the C6root avulsion method. A suspension of human amniotic epithelial cells was repeatedly injected over an area 4.0 mm lateral to the cephal and caudal ends of the C6 brachial plexus injury site （1 × 106 cells/mL, 3μL/injection, 25 injections） immediately after the injury. The results showed that the decrease in stress and increase in strain at 7,200 seconds in the injured rabbit C6 brachial plexus nerve were mitigated by the cell transplantation, restoring the viscoelastic stress relaxation and creep properties of the brachial plexus nerve. The forepaw functions were also signiifcantly improved at 26 weeks after injury. These data indicate that transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells can effec-tively restore the mechanical properties of the brachial plexus nerve after injury in rabbits and that viscoelasticity may be an important index for the evaluation of brachial plexus injury in animals.
文摘Background In recent years, transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve has become a routine procedure for restoration of shoulder abduction. However, the operation via the traditional supraclavicular anterior approach often leads to partial denervation of the trapezius muscle. The purpose of the study was to introduce transfer of the spinal accessory nerve through dorsal approach, using distal branch of the spinal accessory nerve, to repair the suprascapular nerve for restoration of shoulder abduction, and to observe its therapeutic effect. Methods From January to October 2003, a total of 11 patients with a brachial plexus injury and an intact or nearly intact spinal accessory nerve were treated by .transferring the spinal accessory nerve to the suprascapular nerve through dorsal approach. The patients were followed up for 18 to 26 months [mean （23.5 ±5.2） months] to evaluate their shoulder abduction and function of the trapezius muscle. The outcomes were compared with those of 26 patients treated with traditional anterior approach. And the data were analyzed by Student＇s t test using SPSS 10.5.Results In the 11 patients, the spinal accessory nerves were transferred to the suprascapular nerve through the dorsal approach successfully. Intact function of the upper trapezius was achieved in all of them. In the patients, the location of the two nerves was relatively stable at the level of superior margin of the scapula, the mean distance between them was （4.2± 1.4） cm, both the nerves could be easily dissected and end-to-end anastomosed without any tension. During the follow-up, the first electrophysiological sign of recovery of the infraspinatus appeared at （6.8±2.7） months and the first sign of restoration of the shoulder abduction at （7.6±2.9） months after the operation, which were earlier than that after the traditional operation [（8.7±2.4） months and （9.9±2.8） months, respectively; P〈0.05]. The postoperative shoulder abduction was 62.8°±12.6° after transfer
基金supported by the Project of Ministry of Health(Comprehensive Research on Brachial Plexus Injury),No.13D22270800 from the National Natural Science Foundation of China2011 Shanghai Medical College Young Scientist Fund of Fudan University,No.11L-24
文摘Electroacupuncture has traditionally been used to treat pain, but its effect on pain following brachial plexus injury is still unknown. In this study, rat models of an avulsion injury to the left brachial plexus root （associated with upper-limb chronic neuropathic pain） were given electroacupuncture stimulation at bilateral Quchi （LIll）, Hegu （LI04）, Zusanli （ST36） and Yanglingquan （GB34）. After electroacupuncture therapy, chronic neuropathic pain in the rats＇ upper limbs was significantly attenuated. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the expression of β-endorphins in the arcuate nucleus was significantly increased after therapy. Thus, experimental findings indi- cate that electroacupuncture can attenuate neuropathic pain after brachial plexus injury through upregulating β-endorphin expression.
文摘In spite of the fact that the Hippocrates method hardly has been evaluated in a scientific manner and numerous associated iatrogenic complications have been reported, this method remains to be one of the most common techniques for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations. We report the case of a 69-year-old farmer under coumarin anticoagulant therapy who sustained acute first time anterior dislocation of his dominant right shoulder. By using the Hippocrates method with the patient under general anaesthesia, the brachial vein was injured and an increasing hematoma subsequently caused brachial plexus paresis by pressure. After surgery for decompression and vascular suturing, symptoms declined rapidly, but brachial plexus paresis still was not fully reversible after 3 mo of follow-up. The hazardousness of using the Hippocrates method can be explained by traction on the outstretched arm with force of the operator's body weight, direct trauma to the axillary region by the physician's heel, and the topographic relations of neurovascular structures and the dislocated humeral head. As there is a variety of alternative reduction techniques which have been evalu-ated scientifically and proofed to be safe, we strongly caution against the use of the Hippocrates method as a first line technique for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations, especially in elder patients with fragile vessels or under anticoagulant therapy, and recommend the scapular manipulation technique or the Milch technique, for example, as a first choice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81572127(to JL)
文摘Contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery is one of the most important surgical techniques for treating total brachial plexus nerve injury. In the traditional contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery, the whole ulnar nerve on the paralyzed side is harvested for transfer, which completely sacrifices its potential of recovery. In the present, novel study, we report on the anatomical feasibility of a modified contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery. Ten fresh cadavers (4 males and 6 females) provided by the Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology at the Medical College of Fudan University, China were used in modified contralateral C7 nerve transfer surgery. In this surgical model, only the dorsal and superficial branches of the ulnar nerve and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve on the paralyzed side (left) were harvested for grafting the contralateral (right) C7 nerve and the recipient nerves. Both the median nerve and deep branch of the ulnar nerve on the paralyzed (left) side were recipient nerves. To verify the feasibility of this surgery, the distances between each pair of coaptating nerve ends were measured by a vernier caliper. The results validated that starting point of the deep branch of ulnar nerve and the starting point of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve at the elbow were close to each other and could be readily anastomosed. We investigated whether the fiber number of donor and recipient nerves matched one another. The axons were counted in sections of nerve segments distal and proximal to the coaptation sites after silver impregnation. Averaged axon number of the ulnar nerve at the upper arm level was approximately equal to the sum of the median nerve and proximal end of medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve (left: 0.94:1;right: 0.93:1). In conclusion, the contralateral C7 nerve could be transferred to the median nerve but also to the deep branch of the ulnar nerve via grafts of the ulnar nerve without deep branch and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. The advantage over traditiona
文摘There is a large amount of fat in the postganglionic segment of the brachial plexus nerve.The use of short T1 inversion recovery pulse sequence may improve signal strength of the brachial plexus postganglionic segment.The present study revealed that the combination of three-dimensional fast imaging employing steady-state acquisition with phase-cycled and short T1 inversion recovery pulse sequence clearly displayed the anatomical morphology and structure of the brachial plexus nerve,together with maximum intensity projection,volume rendering and other three-dimensional reconstruction techniques.Our results suggested that this method is also suitable for providing accurate assessment and diagnosis of the site,severity and scope of brachial plexus injury.
文摘Background The ankle brachial index （ABI） is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive tool that correlates well with angiographic disease severity and functional symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify the manifestation of lower extremity atherosclerotic lesions in patients with high ABI by retrospective clinical study.Methods A cohort of 184 diabetic patients, （63±14） years old, 144 males, who underwent simultaneously ABI testing and low extremity arterial duplex ultrasound within one week, were enrolled randomly into this study. According to the ABI value, they were divided into three groups： the high, normal and low ABI groups. The severity and location of atherosclerotic lesions in the lower extremity were determined based on the results of low extremity artery duplex ultrasound. The chi-square test was used to compare the atherosclerosis severity grade and lesion location across the three groups.Results The prevalence of low extremity artery occlusion was significantly lower in the high ABI group than in the low ABI group （3.3% vs. 63.5%, P〈0.01）, and the main atherosclerotic lesions were diffuse dot-like hyperechogenicity spots or small plaques （86.7%）. In addition, the atherosclerotic lesions were mostly found in the distal segment of the lower extremity in patients with high ABI （46.3%）.Conclusion A high ABI may be an integrative marker for intimal and medial calcification, which has a high positive predictive value for artery calcification.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81572127
文摘Contralateral C7（cC7） root transfer to the healthy side is the main method for the treatment of brachial plexus root injury. A relatively new modification of this method involves cC7 root transfer to the lower trunk via the prespinal route. In the current study, we examined the effectiveness of this method using electrophysiological and histological analyses. To this end, we used a rat model of total brachial plexus injury, and cC7 root transfer was performed to either the lower trunk via the prespinal route or the median nerve via a subcutaneous tunnel to repair the injury. At 4, 8 and 12 weeks, the grasping test was used to measure the changes in grasp strength of the injured forepaw. Electrophysiological changes were examined in the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle. The change in the wet weight of the forearm flexor was also measured. Atrophy of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Toluidine blue staining was used to count the number of myelinated nerve fibers in the injured nerves. Compared with the traditional method, cC7 root transfer to the lower trunk via the prespinal route increased grasp strength of the injured forepaw, increased the compound muscle action potential maximum amplitude, shortened latency, substantially restored tetanic contraction of the forearm flexor muscles, increased the wet weight of the muscle, reduced atrophy of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle, and increased the number of myelinated nerve fibers. These findings demonstrate that for finger flexion functional recovery in rats with total brachial plexus injury, transfer of the cC7 root to the lower trunk via the prespinal route is more effective than transfer to the median nerve via subcutaneous tunnel.
文摘Background The use of traditional techniques （such as landmark techniques, paresthesia and peripheral nerve stimulator） for upper-limb anesthesia has often been restricted to the expert or enthusiast, which was blind. Recently, ultrasound （US） has been applied to differ blood vessel, pleura and nerve, thus may reduce the risk of complications while have a high rate of success. The aim of this study was to determine if the use of ultrasound guidance （vs. peripheral nerve stimulator, （PNS）） decreases risk of vascular puncture, risk of hemi-diaphragmatic paresis and risk of Homer syndrome and improves the success rate of nerve block. Methods A search strategy was developed to identify randomized control trials （RCTs） reporting on complications of US and PNS guidance for upper-extremity peripheral nerve blocks （brachial plexus） in adults available through PubMed databases, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase databases, SinoMed databases and Wanfang data （date up to 2011-12-20）. Two independent reviewers appraised eligible studies and extracted data. Risk ratios （OR） were calculated for each outcome and presented with 95% confidence intervals （CI） with the software of Review Manager 5.1.0 System （Cochrane Library）. Results Sixteen trials involving 1321 adults met our criteria were included for analysis. Blocks performed using US guidance were more likely to be successful （risk ratio （RR） for block success 0.36, 95% CI 0.23-0.56, P 〈0.00001）, decreased incidence of vascular puncture during block performance （RR 0.13, 95% CI 0.06-0.27, P 〈0.00001）, decreased the risk of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paresis （RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.03-0.52, P=-0.0001）. Conclusions US decreases risks of complete hemi-diaphragmatic paresis or vascular puncture and improves success rate of brachial plexus nerve block compared with techniques that utilize PNS for nerve localization. Larger studies are needed to determine whether or not the use of US can decrease risk
文摘Research on brain function after brachial plexus injury focuses on local cortical functional reorganization,and few studies have focused on brain networks after brachial plexus injury.Changes in brain networks may help understanding of brain plasticity at the global level.We hypothesized that topology of the global cerebral resting-state functional network changes after unilateral brachial plexus injury.Thus,in this cross-sectional study,we recruited eight male patients with unilateral brachial plexus injury（right handedness,mean age of 27.9±5.4years old）and eight male healthy controls（right handedness,mean age of 28.6±3.2）.After acquiring and preprocessing resting-state magnetic resonance imaging data,the cerebrum was divided into 90 regions and Pearson’s correlation coefficient calculated between regions.These correlation matrices were then converted into a binary matrix with affixed sparsity values of 0.1–0.46.Under sparsity conditions,both groups satisfied this small-world property.The clustering coefficient was markedly lower,while average shortest path remarkably higher in patients compared with healthy controls.These findings confirm that cerebral functional networks in patients still show smallworld characteristics,which are highly effective in information transmission in the brain,as well as normal controls.Alternatively,varied small-worldness suggests that capacity of information transmission and integration in different brain regions in brachial plexus injury patients is damaged.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.H0605/81501871
文摘If a partial contralateral C7 nerve is transferred to a recipient injured nerve, results are not satisfactory. However, if an entire contralateral C7 nerve is used to repair two nerves, both recipient nerves show good recovery. These findings seem contradictory, as the above two methods use the same donor nerve, only the cutting method of the contralateral C7 nerve is different. To verify whether this can actually result in different repair effects, we divided rats with right total brachial plexus injury into three groups. In the entire root group, the entire contralateral C7 root was transected and transferred to the median nerve of the affected limb. In the posterior division group, only the posterior division of the contralateral C7 root was transected and transferred to the median nerve. In the entire root ＋ posterior division group, the entire contralateral C7 root was transected but only the posterior division was transferred to the median nerve. After neurectomy,the median nerve was repaired on the affected side in the three groups. At 8, 12, and 16 weeks postoperatively, electrophysiological examination showed that maximum amplitude, latency, muscle tetanic contraction force, and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle were significantly better in the entire root and entire root ＋ posterior division groups than in the posterior division group. No significant difference was found between the entire root and entire root ＋ posterior division groups. Counts of myelinated axons in the median nerve were greater in the entire root group than in the entire root ＋ posterior division group, which were greater than the posterior division group. We conclude that for the same recipient nerve, harvesting of the entire contralateral C7 root achieved significantly better recovery than partial harvesting, even if only part of the entire root was used for transfer. This result indicates that the entire root should be used as a donor when transferring contralateral C7 ne
文摘Background Contralateral C7 （cC7） transfer had been widely used in many organizations in the world, but the outcomes were significantly different. So the purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of patients treated with cC7 transferring to median nerve and to determine the factors affecting the outcome of this procedure.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81371366(to HFW)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province of China,No.2015A030313515(to HFW)+1 种基金the Dongguan International Science and Technology Cooperation Project,No.2013508152010(to HFW)the Key Project of Social Development of Dongguan of China,No.20185071521640(to HFW)
文摘Brachial plexus avulsion often results in massive motor neuron death and severe functional deficits of target muscles. However, no satisfactory treatment is currently available. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is a critical molecule targeting several genes associated with ischemia-hypoxia damage and angiogenesis. In this study, a rat model of brachial plexus avulsion-reimplantation was established, in which C5–7 ventral nerve roots were avulsed and only the C6 root reimplanted. Different implants were immediately injected using a microsyringe into the avulsion-reimplantation site of the C6 root post-brachial plexus avulsion. Rats were randomly divided into five groups: phosphate-buffered saline, negative control of lentivirus, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α(hypoxia-inducible factor 1α overexpression lentivirus), gel(pluronic F-127 hydrogel), and gel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α(pluronic F-127 hydrogel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α overexpression lentivirus). The Terzis grooming test was performed to assess recovery of motor function. Scores were higher in the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and gel +hypoxia-inducible factor 1α groups(in particular the gel + hypoxia-inducible factor 1α group) compared with the phosphate-buffered saline group. Electrophysiology, fluorogold retrograde tracing, and immunofluorescent staining were further performed to investigate neural pathway reconstruction and changes of neurons, motor endplates, and angiogenesis. Compared with the phosphate-buffered saline group, action potential latency of musculocutaneous nerves was markedly shortened in the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and gel + hypoxia-inducible factor1α groups. Meanwhile, the number of fluorogold-positive cells and ChAT-positive neurons, neovascular area(labeled by CD31 around av ulsed sites in ipsilateral spinal cord segments), and the number of motor endplates in biceps brachii(identified by α-bungarotoxin) were all visibly increased, as well as the morphology of motor endplate in biceps brachil was clear in the hypoxia-i
文摘This study aimed to investigate the reconstruction of the thumb and finger extension function in patients with middle and lower trunk root avulsion injuries of the brachial plexus. From April 2010 to January 2015, we enrolled in this study 4 patients diagnosed with middle and lower trunk root avulsion injuries of the brachial plexus via imaging tests, electrophysiological examinations, and clinical confirmation. Muscular branches of the radial nerve, which innervate the supinator in the forearm, were transposed to the posterior interosseous nerve to reconstruct the thumb and finger extension function. Electrophysiological findings and muscle strength of the extensor pollicis longus and extensor digitorum communis, as well as the distance between the thumb tip and index finger tip, were monitored. All patients were followed up for 24 to 30 months, with an average of 27.5 months. Motor unit potentials（MUP） of the extensor digitorum communis appeared at an average of 3.8 months, while MUP of the extensor pollicis longus appeared at an average of 7 months. Compound muscle action potential（CMAP） appeared at an average of 9 months in the extensor digitorum communis, and 12 months in the extensor pollicis longus. Furthermore, the muscle strength of the extensor pollicis longus and extensor digitorum communis both reached grade Ⅲ at 21 months. Lastly, the average distance between the thumb tip and index finger tip was 8.8 cm at 21 months. In conclusion, for patients with middle and lower trunk injuries of the brachial plexus, transposition of the muscular branches of the radial nerve innervating the supinator to the posterior interosseous nerve for the reconstruction of thumb and finger extension function is practicable and feasible.
基金This program was supported by Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province (No. 990962)
文摘Objective: Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to observe the influence of the up-transmitting of acupuncture signal into the brain in health volunteers whose nerve trunk was blocked by anesthetics. Methods: Thirty-one healthy volunteers were divided into two groups, the control group of 20 cases, and the brachial plexus blockade (BPB) group of 11 cases, with supraclavicular BPB route adopted. With the control group 2 acupoints were randomly selected (Hegu and Quchi of both sides), while with the BPB group Hegu and Quchi of anesthetic arm side were selected. Siemens ECAM/ ICON SPECT system was used to conduct brain imaging using double imaging assay before acupuncture and 99mTc-ECD imaging agent during acupuncture for cerebral perfusion. The data were quantitatively analyzed by blood functional changing rate (BFCR%) mathematics model. Results: Before acupuncture, the control and BPB groups showed insignificant change by SPECT, but after electro-acupuncture (EA), the control group displayed improved motor and sensory cortex excitability in basal nuclei, contra-lateral thal-amus, parietal and frontal lobe; while BPB group was characterized with reduction of the blood perfusion and cell function of contra-lateral thalamus of anesthetized arm. The difference between the two groups was significant (P<0.01) . Conclusion: (1) After BPB, the up-transmitting of the acupuncture signal via upper limb into the brain, and its strength was impaired or blocked; (2) After BPB, the effect of acupuncture on cerebral perfusion and brain cell function of contra-lateral thalamus was impaired or blocked.
文摘Background There are few effective methods for treating injuries to the lower trunk of brachial plexus, and the curative effect is usually poor. The purpose of this study was to provide anatomic references for transferring the brachialis muscle branch of musculocutaneous nerve （BMBMCN） for selective neurotization of finger flexion in brachial plexus lower trunk injury, and to evaluate its clinical curative effects.Methods Microanatomy and measurement were done on 50 limbs from 25 adult human cadavers to observe the origin, branch, type of the BMBMCN and median nerve, as well as their adjacent structures. Internal topographic features of the fascicular groups of the median nerve at the level of the BMBMCN were observed. In addition, the technique of BMBMCN transfer for selective neurotization of finger flexion of the median nerve was designed and tested in 6 fresh adult human cadavers. Acetylcholinesterase （AchE） staining of the BMBMCN and median nerve was done to observe the features of the nerve fibers. This technique was clinically tried to restore digital flexion in 6 cases of adult brachial plexus lower trunk injury. These cases were followed up for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. Recovery of function, grip strength, nerve electrophysiology and muscle power of the affected limbs were observed and measured.Results The brachialis muscle was totally innervated by the musculocutaneous nerve （MCN）. Based on the Hunter＇s line, the level of the origin of the BMBMCN was （13.18±.2.77）cm. Ache histochemical staining indicated that the BMBMCN were totally made up of medullated nerve fibers. At the level of the BMBMCN, the median nerve consistently collected into three fascicular groups as shown by microanatomy in combination with Ache stain. The posterior fascicular group was mainly composed of anterior interosseous nerves and branches to the palmaris Iongus. The technique was tested in six fresh cadavers successfully, except that stoma split occurred in one case. Five of the six cases recovere
文摘Background Brachial plexus injury is one of the difficult medical problems in the world. The aim of this study was to observe the clinical therapeutic effect of comprehensive rehabilitation in treating dysfunction after brachial plexus injury. Methods Forty-three cases of dysfunction after brachial plexus injury were divided into two groups randomly. The treatment group, which totaled 21 patients （including 14 cases of total brachial plexus injury and seven cases of branch brachial plexus injury）, was treated with comprehensive rehabilitation including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, mid-frequency electrotherapy, Tuina therapy, and occupational therapy. The control group, which totaled 22 patients （including 16 cases of total brachial plexus injury and six cases of branch brachial plexus injury）, was treated with home-based electrical nerve stimulation and occupational therapy. Each course was of 30 days duration and the patients received four courses totally. After four courses, the rehabilitation effect was evaluated according to the brachial plexus function evaluation standard and electromyogram （EMG） assessment. Results In the treatment group, there was significant difference in the scores of brachial plexus function pre- and post-treatment （P 〈0.01） in both ＂total＂ and ＂branch＂ injury. The scores of two ＂total injury＂ groups had statistical differences （P 〈0.01）, while the scores of two ＂branch injury＂ groups had statistical differences （P 〈0.05） after four courses. EMG suggested that the appearance of regeneration potentials of the recipient nerves in the treatment group was earlier than the control group and had significant differences （P 〈0.05）. Conclusion Comprehensive rehabilitation was more effective in treating dysfunction after brachial plexus injury than nonintegrated rehabilitation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.H0605/81501871
文摘Despite recent great progress in diagnosis and microsurgical repair, the prognosis in total brachial plexus-avulsion injury remains unfavorable.Insufficient number of donors and unreasonable use of donor nerves might be key factors. To identify an optimal treatment strategy for this condition, we conducted a retrospective review. Seventy-three patients with total brachial plexus avulsion injury were followed up for an average of 7.3 years. Our analysis demonstrated no significant difference in elbow-flexion recovery between phrenic nerve-transfer （25 cases）, phrenic nerve-graft （19 cases）, intercostal nerve （17 cases）, or contralateral C7-transfer （12 cases） groups. Restoration of shoulder function was attempted through anterior accessory nerve （27 cases）, posterior accessory nerve （10 cases）, intercostal nerve （5 cases）, or accessory ＋ intercostal nerve transfer （31 cases）. Accessory nerve ＋ intercostal nerve transfer was the most effective method. A significantly greater amount of elbow extension was observed in patients with intercostal nerve transfer （25 cases） than in those with contralateral C7 transfer （10 cases）. Recovery of median nerve function was noticeably better for those who received entire contralateral C7 transfer （33 cases） than for those who received partial contralateral C7 transfer （40 cases）. Wrist and finger extension were reconstructed by intercostal nerve transfer （31 cases）. Overall, the recommended surgical treatment for total brachial plexus-avulsion injury is phrenic nerve transfer for elbow flexion, accessory nerve ＋ intercostal nerve transfer for shoulder function, intercostal nerves transfer for elbow extension, entire contralateral C7 transfer for median nerve function, and intercostal nerve transfer for finger extension. The trial was registered at Clinical-Trials.gov （identifier： NCT03166033）.
