Treatment of a proximal accessory nerve injury with nerve transfer.
OBJECTIVE
This study presents a case report of a patient who sustained an iatrogenic proximal accessory nerve injury that was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer.


METHODS
Case study.


METHODS
Chart of one patient who was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer was reviewed.


RESULTS
Five months after excision of a branchial cyst that resulted in a very proximal injury to the accessory nerve, this patient underwent a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer. At final follow-up, 3 years after surgery, the patient had full abduction overhead with some residual shoulder/scapular discomfort and mild scapular winging.


CONCLUSIONS
The medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer provides a viable surgical option with good reinnervation of the trapezius muscle in patients with a proximal accessory nerve injury where standard nerve repair or graft techniques are not feasible.
Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, WA University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Christine B
CB
Novak
Susan E
SE
Mackinnon
D000055:Accessory Nerve / Q000601:surgery*; D061227:Accessory Nerve Injuries; D000328:Adult; D001935:Branchioma / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D016067:Nerve Transfer; D013900:Thoracic Nerves / Q000601:surgery*