Non-recovering obstetric brachial plexus lesion

Non-recovering obstetric brachial plexus lesion (also called non-recovering birth brachial plexus palsy or persistent neonatal brachial plexus injury) is a condition that occurs when the nerves that control movement and feeling in the shoulder, arm, and hand are damaged during birth and do not heal on their own. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves running from the neck down into the arm. During a difficult delivery, these nerves can be stretched, compressed, or torn. While many babies with birth-related brachial plexus injuries recover within the first few months of life, some do not. When the nerve damage is severe enough that function does not return naturally, the condition is classified as non-recovering. Affected children may have a limp or paralyzed arm, limited ability to move the shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand, and differences in arm size and strength compared to the unaffected side. The severity depends on which nerves are damaged and how badly. Some children have weakness mainly in the upper arm and shoulder (known as Erb's palsy pattern), while others have more widespread involvement including the hand (Klumpke's palsy pattern). In the most severe cases, the entire arm may be affected. Treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in many cases surgery. Nerve surgery (such as nerve grafting or nerve transfers) is often considered when recovery stalls, usually between 3 and 9 months of age. Later surgeries on muscles, tendons, or bones may be needed as the child grows to improve function and correct joint problems. While treatment can significantly improve outcomes, complete recovery of normal arm function is uncommon in non-recovering cases.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.How severe is my child's nerve injury, and which specific nerves are affected?,Is my child a candidate for nerve surgery, and what is the ideal timing?,What improvements can we realistically expect with and without surgery?,How often should my child have physical and occupational therapy?,What exercises should we be doing at home to help recovery?,Will my child need additional surgeries as they grow?,Are there any clinical trials or new treatments we should know about?

Common questions about Non-recovering obstetric brachial plexus lesion