Because brachial plexus injuries could result in permanent impairments if not treated as soon as possible, early intervention is key to regaining function.

Each patient is evaluated by an interdisciplinary clinical team that determines the extent of the injury and provides recommendations for treatment. This evaluation may include diagnostic imaging tests such as nerve conduction studies or X-ray, EMG, MRI or CT scans.

Treatment:

After a comprehensive evaluation, each patient receives a customized treatment and therapy program designed to maximize nerve and functional recovery.

  • Rehabilitation interventions include occupational therapy and physical medicine. We offer both traditional therapies and aquatic-based therapies. These rehabilitation therapies maximize the recovery and neurodevelopmental processes that lead to improved function and the development of adequate and efficient motor patterns.
  • Orthopedic, plastic surgery and neurosurgery interventions vary, depending on the degree of functional impairment, the age of the patient and the potential for recovery, and could include:
    • Tendon transfers
    • Reconstruction or repair of affected nerves
    • Shoulder joint release
    • Nerve transfer

The surgical team will determine if and when surgical intervention is recommended, depending on the type and complexity of the injury.

Surgical Treatment for AFM

For children who have been diagnosed with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), nerve transfer surgery is an option for improving function in an affected area. Our clinic offers evaluation for nerve transfer surgery by peripheral nerve surgeons at The Johns Hopkins Hospital.