Experimental investigations of traction injury of the brachial plexus. Model and results.
OBJECTIVE
The study was realized in purpose to investigate mechanical properties of the human brachial plexus. Authors present model of experiments and biomechanical results obtained after controlled stretching of specimens. Investigations were supported by Polish Ministry of Education (Grant KBN 3 P05C 072 22), under permission of Committee of Bioethics.


METHODS
Thirty specimens isolated from cadavers were distracted with a speed 20 cm/min. Mechanical tests were realised by means of apparatus INSTRON 4000. During stretching following data were registered: maximal force provoking mechanical failure of specimen and elongation in the point of mechanical failure. Stiffness of the brachial plexus was also calculated. Anatomic investigations were realised in purpose to define the most frequent type of lesion.


RESULTS
The mean value of force leading to rupture of human brachial plexus was 630 N. The mean value of elongation in the point of rupture was 37%.
Zapałowicz
Krzysztof
K
Department of Neurosurgery and Surgery of Peripheral Nerves, University Hospital Nr 2, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
Radek
Andrzej
A
D000328:Adult; D001917:Brachial Plexus / Q000293:injuries* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002102:Cadaver; D004548:Elasticity; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012421:Rupture / Q000209:etiology; D014143:Traction / Q000009:adverse effects*