Pectoralis Major Reinnervation by Retrograde Nerve Regeneration after Complete Paralysis of the Brachial Plexus

Abstract

Spontaneous neuronal recovery is an expected phenomenon in brachial plexus palsy patients. However, the spontaneous recovery owing to retrograde regeneration is an evolving phenomenon with dearth of adequate research on it. Pectoralis major contraction on stimulation of median nerve (in the arm) is an unexpected phenomenon, in the absence of any anomalous communication and with distal coaptation site of intraplexal nerve repair. We presumably attribute it to the retrograde regrowth of axons. The case described supports our hypothesis. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)