Brachial plexus injury treatment with nerve decompression surgery

When a nerve is compressed but otherwise remains intact, surgery can help. Decompression is a minimally invasive procedure in which a pinched nerve is released from the tissues compressing it. The main reason for their formation is traumatic injuries and inflammation. As a result, hard, fibrous scars squeeze the nerves and do not allow impulses to pass normally through the tissues. The operation is performed under general anesthesia. First, the neurosurgeon makes a small incision next to the affected nerve. Next, when the nerve is exposed, the doctor removes blood vessels, scar tissue, or tumors compressing the affected nerve. For the released nerve, a bed is created between the muscles in which it fits. This bed is necessary to avoid further scarring or deformations of the nerve and its compression. Then the surgical wound is sewn up, and a bandage is applied. After the operation, the pain quickly disappears, the previously lost sensitivity appears, and the mobility of the limb returns. This operation is most effective within 6-8 months after the injury. However, nerve decompression can be performed later but might take longer to restore limb movement.