Medial pectoral nerve to musculocutaneous nerve neurotization for the treatment of persistent birth-related brachial plexus palsy: an 11-year institutional experience

Abstract

Object Medial pectoral nerve (MPN) to musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) neurotization for recovery of elbow flexion by biceps reinnervation is a valid option following traumatic injury to the upper brachial plexus. A major criticism of the application of this technique in infants is the smaller size of the MPN and mismatch of viable axons. We describe our institutional experience utilizing this procedure and critically examine functional outcomes. Methods Office charts and hospital records of children from over an 11-year period beginning January 1997 were reviewed. Of the 53 children of various ages undergoing brachial plexus exploration for traumatic injury of any nature, 20 underwent MPN to MCN neurotization as a part of an overall procedure in the first year of life to treat birth-related brachial plexus palsy and had at least 9 months' follow-up. Medial pectoral nerve to MCN neurotization was chosen if the results of clinical examination and intraoperative electrophysiological evidence were consistent with medial cord function. Functional recovery was defined as the ability of the child to bring their hand to their mouth. Results Sixteen patients (80%) gained functional recovery. The median age at surgery was 7 months. Median time to first clinic visit documenting recovery was 11.5 months and median overall follow up was 21.5 months. Preoperative hand function was a useful predictor of recovery of elbow flexion. Conclusions Medial pectoral nerve to MCN neurotization is a valid surgical option for the reinnervation of the biceps muscle for birth-related brachial plexus palsy when the hand is functional preoperatively. Useful elbow flexion can be expected in the majority of these children.