Brachial Plexus Surgery
The brachial plexus works to convey movement and sensory signals from the upper spinal cord in the neck down into the arms and hands. Essentially, this is a network of nerves that is useful to convey signals. However, an accident or trauma to the neck or shoulder can injure the brachial plexus, which also causes pain, weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the arms or hands.
In some cases, some brachial plexus injuries are able to cure on their own and restore normal or near-normal function. On the other hand, in the case of a severe injury, brachial plexus surgery is considered to be the best treatment to relieve the symptoms of pain and restore sensation and mobility.
Understanding the need of brachial plexus surgery
Here are some of the conditions that need brachial plexus surgery such as:
In case a person met with an accident and suffered a neck injury or shoulder injury. Severe trauma that leads to torn or stretched nerves in the brachial plexus.
Pain or loss of function in the arm after the injury or trauma due to damaged nerves during surgery.
Patients with scarred nerves that form tumors called neuromas.
Nerve tumors of the brachial plexus that are not caused by trauma such as schwannomas and neurofibromas.
Types of brachial plexus surgery
The main aim of the brachial plexus surgery is to relieve pain and restore sensation and motor function to the shoulder, arm and hand. Surgery is based upon the type, location, and severity of the nerve injury, and the overall health of the patient. This injury to the neck and shoulder impacts on the ability to work and moreover on quality of life.
Types and procedure of the brachial plexus nerve repair includes:
When a nerve has been cut or torn, the surgeon may rejoin the nerve by sewing the ends back together. This surgery involves a microscope to perform the procedure.
- Brachial plexus decompression and neurolysis This procedure is performed when the nerve is compressed but intact, a decompression surgery can help to relieve pressure on the nerve and also deal with related symptoms and loss of function. This is done by removing scar tissue or adhesions.
- Nerve grafting surgery for brachial plexus injuries This is a condition of severely injured or scarred nerve, this leads to cut off the signals from the brain to the arm and hand. This condition is also known as paralysis. Surgeons remove the damaged nerve segment and replace it with a segment of an expandable sensory nerve from another part of the body like a leg. This procedure is called a nerve graft.
- Brachial plexus nerve transfer surgery During a nerve transfer, a healthy nerve is connected to the injured nerve to help create a pathway for signal and also encourages new growth. This procedure helps to restore movement and sensation. Nerves that can be used for the transfer include the medial pectoral nerve, intercostal nerve , musculocutaneous nerve and other likewise.
- Tendon transfer surgery for brachial plexus injuries During a tendon transfer, a functioning expendable tendon is attached to a paralyzed tendon because of brachial plexus injury. This transfer allows movement of healthy tendons in the affected extremity.
Cost of brachial plexus surgery in India
The cost of brachial plexus surgery in India is affordable and more economical compared to other countries. The treatment is complex and needs immediate medical attention once diagnosed. Hospitals in India are open 24/7 to care for patients. However, the total cost of treatment can vary depending on things like the type of surgery, the doctor's experience, the hospital's location, and other factors.
India maintains the best quality equipment that is implanted in the patient's replacement surgery. Delivery excellent results without straining finances.
Summary
The brachial plexus works to convey movement and sensory signals from the upper spinal cord in the neck down into the arms and hands.
However, an accident or trauma to the neck or shoulder can injure the brachial plexus, which also causes pain, weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the arms or hands.
Brachial plexus surgery is considered to be the best treatment to relieve the symptoms of pain and restore sensation and mobility.
