Article

Posttraumatic brachial plexopathies can occur following displaced proximal
humeral fractures, causing profound functional deficits. Described here is an
unusual case of a displaced proximal humeral metaphyseal fracture in a young
child. The patient underwent closed reduction and serial casting, but hand
weakness and forearm sensory loss persisted. Needle electromyography localized
the injury to the mid/proximal arm near the fracture site, resulting in damage to
the posterior and medial cords of the brachial plexus with profound involvement
of the radial, ulnar, and median nerves and sparing of the axillary nerve. After
months of occupational therapy, hand strength improved, with a nearly full return
of function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.
CI - Copyright (c) 2017 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS