About surgery for brachial plexus palsy
This procedure aims to correct shoulder deformities in children caused by brachial plexus palsy — muscle weakness in the shoulder, arm and hand. This condition is caused by injury to the brachial plexus during birth.
The brachial plexus is a group of nerve fibres stemming from the spine and through the neck. If pressure is applied to the baby's head during delivery, these nerves can become damaged causing complete paralysis and weakness.
Left untreated, this condition can cause shoulder abnormalities during the growth of the child. This is because the arm bone isn't fitting the shoulder socket (glenoid). This means that the head doesn't sit properly in the socket and this must be corrected to avoid progressive deterioration and improve function.
The brachial plexus is a group of nerve fibres stemming from the spine and through the neck. If pressure is applied to the baby's head during delivery, these nerves can become damaged causing complete paralysis and weakness.
Left untreated, this condition can cause shoulder abnormalities during the growth of the child. This is because the arm bone isn't fitting the shoulder socket (glenoid). This means that the head doesn't sit properly in the socket and this must be corrected to avoid progressive deterioration and improve function.
Need to know
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What happens during correction surgery? icon plus
This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, so your child will be asleep throughout. A cut is made at the front and if needed, at back of the shoulder (osteotomy) so the surgeon can access the joint.
This releases the tendons and the head is put back into the socket. If the socket is deficient at the back, the shoulder blade (scapula) is remodelled in order to contain the head. The child is often given a plaster jacket to wear for a few weeks in order to protect the surgery. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have. In the week before surgery, it’s important that your child stays healthy. Let your consultant know if your child has recently had a cold or a sore throat, as surgery may need to be postponed to reduce the risk of complications. Because general anaesthetic is used during the procedure, your child may need to fast for several hours before the operation. Your consultant will tell you how long they should avoid eating and drinking. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
Afterwards icon plus
After the child has healed from the procedure and the cast has been removed, they will need intensive physiotherapy to improve the function and to learn how to move the shoulder. This will take several weeks/months. You will have regular follow-up appointments with your consultant, who will monitor your child's progress with regular follow-ups. They will be happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you might have.
Our consultants
We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our locations
From complex nerve surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional nerve injury care for adults and children across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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Peripheral Nerve Injury (PNI) Unit
The PNI Unit at The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
London NW8 9LE
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The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park
Beaufort House, Elstree Road, Elstree WD6 3BS
Request an appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.