Management of brachial plexus injuries

Almost of brachial plexus injuries occurred in traffic accidents while driving high speed motorcycles. Their treatments were usually difficult with poor outcomes. Thanks to microsurgical techniques, these injuries could be treated early to restore the movement capability of patients. Clinical signs included paralysis of upper collar; behind clavicle and lower collar areas, and the signs of spinal cord injuries. Paraclinical tests included standard X ray; MRI; spinal radiography; electromusculography; muscle test; respiratory function tests. Regime: in the first examination: clinical examination, EMG test, muscle test, respiratory function tests, X ray studies of cervical spine, heart and lungs, other necessary films; myelography; MRI

Finger reconstruction by second toe transfer technique

In the Hospital for Trauma and Orthopedics of Ho Chi Minh city from 1995 to 2004, there were 15 cases (12 male and 3 female) with second toe transfer to replace 8 lost thumbs, 5 lost total long fingers and 2 cases of double toe transfer. Results: All 15 cases had good health and good recovery. The follow-up in 9 patients showed 5 patients in grade 1 recovery and 4 patients in grade 2 recovery according to Pho's evaluation criteria, that means they were useful

Neurotization from spinal accessory nerve to the musculo-cutaneous nerve for restoration of elbow flexion in brachial plexus injuries

From January 2000 to March 2004, 57 patients (53 males, 4 females, aged between 15 and 60 years old) with upper root injuries or complete brachial plexus injuries were surgical treated by neurotization from spinal accessory nerve to the musculo-cutaneous nerve for restoration of elbow flexion in the Trauma and Orthopedics Hospital of HoChiMinh city. Following-up lasted 12-24 months. The results: good result in restoration of elbow flexion MRC3 or more in 72% and the earliest MRC3 gained time was 8 months, the time became to zoom in 2 muscle tips was 6 months. The early neurotization surgery and young people were important factors for good results. Although a less re-examination patients, recovery results were good. It solved somewhat psychological complex for patients