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Surgical procedures aimed at treating injuries or conditions affecting the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves are essential for restoring upper limb movement and function. This specialised surgery focuses on repairing or reconstructing the brachial plexus. This is a network of nerves responsible for sending signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to these nerves can lead to muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and impaired function in the upper limbs. Surgical intervention aims to restore sensation, muscle strength, and limb function by repairing or grafting damaged nerves.
Conditions it Helps With
Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Surgery are highly beneficial for treating a range of nerve-related injuries and conditions, including:
Brachial Plexus Injuries: Damage to the nerve network that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand, often resulting from trauma such as accidents or sports injuries.
Nerve Compression Syndromes: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome (compression of the median nerve in the wrist) or cubital tunnel syndrome (compression of the ulnar nerve in the elbow) that cause numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Neuromas: Painful growths or tumours that develop on injured nerves, often after trauma or surgery.
Traumatic Nerve Injuries: Injuries caused by cuts, stretching, or pressure on nerves, which can impair function in the upper limbs and lead to paralysis or sensory loss.
Why it is Performed?
Brachial plexus and peripheral nerve surgeries are performed to:
Restore Motor and Sensory Functions: These surgeries aim to reconnect or repair damaged nerves, allowing signals to be transmitted from the brain to the muscles, restoring movement and sensation.
Relieve Pain: By repairing or decompressing nerves, these procedures can significantly reduce pain caused by nerve damage or compression.
Improve Mobility and Strength: Restoring proper nerve function helps patients regain the ability to move their arms, hands, and fingers with greater control and strength.
Before Surgery or Treatment:
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation: Patients undergo nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), and imaging scans (MRI or CT) to assess the extent of nerve damage.
Preoperative Consultation: Detailed discussion with the surgeon regarding the type of procedure, potential outcomes, and any associated risks.
Pre-surgical Preparations: Instructions such as fasting, adjusting medications (especially blood thinners), and any lifestyle changes needed before surgery.
After Surgery or Treatment
Immediate Postoperative Care: Following surgery, the affected area may be immobilised using splints or braces to allow the nerves to heal without strain.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: Patients typically undergo an extensive rehabilitation programme to regain muscle strength and range of motion. This can include physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
Nerve Regeneration: Nerve recovery is slow, and it can take several months or more for full function to return. Regular monitoring is essential.
Follow-up Appointments: Regular visits to the surgeon will help track progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Benefits and Risk Factors
Benefits
Enhanced Nerve Function: The primary benefit of brachial plexus and peripheral nerve surgery is improved nerve transmission, leading to better mobility and sensation in the affected areas.
Reduced Pain: Patients often experience relief from chronic pain caused by nerve compression or injury.
Improved Quality of Life: Restoring the ability to move and use the upper limbs significantly improves daily activities and independence.
Risk Factors
Incomplete Recovery: In some cases, nerve damage may be too severe for a full recovery, and patients may not regain complete function.
Nerve Damage: There is a risk of further nerve injury during surgery, which can result in worsening symptoms or additional complications.
Infection and Scarring: Like all surgeries, there is a risk of infection, scarring, or bleeding at the surgical site.
Prolonged Healing Time: Nerve regeneration is slow, and it may take months or even years for full recovery, requiring ongoing rehabilitation and follow-up.
Consult our hand and limb surgeons if you need Brachial Plexus Palsy Treatment in India.
