TRACTION INJURIES OF THE BRACHIAL PLEXUS IN ADULTS

Abstract

1. Sixty-three traction injuries of the brachial plexus in adults are reviewed. Most of the patients were seen at regular intervals for more than three years after injury. 2. The mechanism of injury is described. Forcible separation of the head and shoulder is the essential factor, but the type of lesion is determined by the position of the upper limb at the time of the accident. 3. In traction injuries the main damage is intraneural, and the lesions are of considerable extent. Extraneural scarring is a conspicuous feature of old injuries, but it does not cause any damage to uninjured parts of the plexus. 4. The prognosis of each type of lesion of the plexus is discussed. Satisfactory recovery occurs in most lesions of the upper three roots. Degenerative lesions of the whole plexus never recover completely. Cases with Horner's syndrome always have severe residual paralysis. 5. Conservative treatment is advocated for traction injuries of the plexus and evidence is cited against early or late operations on the plexus. Reconstructive surgical procedures are sometimes indicated.