J Hand Microsurg 2019; 11(03): 178-180
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1685545
Ideas and Innovations
Society of Indian Hand & Microsurgeons

Sensory Nerve Transfer for Lower Roots Brachial Plexus Injury: Superficial Radial Nerve to the Dorsal Cutaneous Branch and the Superficial Branch of the Ulnar Nerve

1   Upper Limb Unit, Wrightington Hospital, Wigan, United Kingdom
,
1   Upper Limb Unit, Wrightington Hospital, Wigan, United Kingdom
› Author Affiliations
Funding None.
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 25 June 2018

Accepted after revision: 19 February 2019

Publication Date:
26 June 2019 (online)

Abstract

In the treatment of brachial plexus injury to lower nerve roots, the priority is to restore motor function to the paralyzed hand. In addition, it is also important to consider sensory reconstruction, which is crucial to the optimal restoration of prehensile function. We report the surgical technique and sensory recovery of a nerve transfer in a case in which the superficial radial nerve was transferred to the dorsal cutaneous branch and the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve in a patient with C7, C8, and T1 roots injury. The nerve transfer successfully restored sensation in the ulnar one and a half digits as well as the ulnar border of the hand, with minimal donor site deficit. This technique provides a useful sensory reconstructive option in patients with brachial plexus injury to lower roots.

 
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