Brachial plexus injury following spinal surgery.
OBJECTIVE
In the present study, the authors identified the etiology, precipitating factors, and outcomes of perioperative brachial plexus injuries following spine surgery.


METHODS
We reviewed all the available literature regarding postoperative/perioperative brachial plexus injuries, with special concern for the patient's position during surgery, duration of surgery, the procedure performed, neurological outcome, and prognosis. We also reviewed the utility of intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring for prevention of these complications.


RESULTS
Patient malpositioning during surgery is the main determining factor for the development of postoperative brachial plexus injury. Recovery occurs in the majority of cases but may require weeks to months of therapy after initial presentation.


CONCLUSIONS
Brachial plexus injuries are an increasingly recognized complication following spinal surgery. Proper attention to patient positioning with the use of intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring techniques could minimize injury.
Uribe
Juan S
JS
Department of Neurological Surgery, University of South Florida, USA. juansuribe@gmail.com
Kolla
Jaya
J
Omar
Hesham
H
Dakwar
Elias
E
Abel
Naomi
N
Mangar
Devanand
D
Camporesi
Enrico
E
D001917:Brachial Plexus / Q000293:injuries* / Q000503:physiopathology; D020516:Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / Q000209:etiology; D055724:Electrophysiological Phenomena; D019054:Evoked Potentials, Motor; D005073:Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory; D006801:Humans; D007432:Intraoperative Period; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects*; D056888:Patient Positioning; D016684:Prone Position; D013131:Spine / Q000601:surgery*; D016683:Supine Position