Brachial plexus injury treatment with nerve grafting surgery

Brachial plexus injury occurs when a nerve is severely damaged. As a result, it can no longer transmit signals from the brain to the arm and hand, leading to paralysis. In this case, neurosurgeons replace the damaged nerve segment with a healthy one from another part of the body, creating a "bridge" to pass nerve impulses. For example, portions of intercostal, thoracic, or diaphragmatic nerves can be taken to connect damaged or severed nerves and restore their function. Nerve grafting surgery for the brachial plexus is carried out under general anesthesia and requires hospitalization. First, a neurosurgeon excises the necessary part of the donor's nerve. Then, with the help of a microscope, the doctor stitches it into the damaged segment using the thinnest seams. After the surgery, nerve impulses can again pass through this area, and gradually the mobility of the limb improves. The earlier the operation is performed, the easier the rehabilitation will be. After the surgical treatment, physiotherapy restores muscle strength, precision movement, and limb plasticity. However, the period of nerve regeneration may take several months.