Outcomes of complete neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve for treatment of elbow spasticity

Abstract

Neurotomy interrupts the stretch reflex and can be used for the treatment of spasticity. We hypothesized that neurotomy with nerve repair reduces spasticity while preserving motor function due to the preferential recovery of efferent over afferent fibres. This study reports the 1-year outcomes of neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve in the proximal arm for treatment of elbow flexor spasticity, comparing these to outcomes in the literature for neurectomy without nerve repair. A total of 10 adult patients with spasticity of the elbow flexors from stroke or traumatic brain injury who had undergone neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve were prospectively studied. The results suggest that this procedure effectively reduces elbow flexor spasticity, improves elbow resting position, active elbow extension and is useful for achieving patient goals with effects lasting at least 12 months. Level of evidence: IV (therapeutic)