How are Brachial Plexus Injuries and Palsies Diagnosed?
With mild injury to the nerves of the brachial plexus, a pediatrician will examine the child periodically to determine if damage is mild or severe. If a child is referred to a specialist, further diagnostic tests can pinpoint nerve damage. When injury is detected, physical and occupational therapy will be instituted early and close clinical observation will determine if the child will need to undergo surgical restoration. If there is insufficient neurological improvement by 3 to 6 months, surgical correction may be the only possibility of regaining any strength or sensation in severely affected nerves. Electrodiagnostic testing, including EMG and somatosensory response can confirm the diagnosis and indicate the degree of damage. If surgery is indicated, these tests will also be used during surgery to carefully select which nerves will be targeted for repair. Treatment How are Brachial Plexus Injuries Treated? Injured or torn nerves may regenerate if the protective sheath (myelin) aroun
