Rehabilitation of Traumatic Lesion of the Brachial Plexus: A Case Report
Leticia Díaz-Martínez
Rehabilitation Service, Irapuato General Hospital, Institute of Public Health from Guanajuato State, Irapuato, Guanajuato, México.
Víctor Manuel Gómez-Vega
Traumatology and Orthopedics Service, Irapuato General Hospital, Institute of Public Health from Guanajuato State, Irapuato Guanajuato, México.
Gilberto Flores-Vargas
Department of Research and Technological Development, Directorate of Teaching and Research, Institute of Public Health from Guanajuato State, Guanajuato, México.
Nicolás Padilla-Raygoza *
Department of Research and Technological Development, Directorate of Teaching and Research, Institute of Public Health from Guanajuato State, Guanajuato, México.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: Most brachial plexus lesions are traumatic etiology, compromise the function of the upper limb and are often accompanied by neuropathic pain. In most cases, surgery is the best treatment; however, the recovery time is around two years, or it may not be a complete recovery. It is difficult to determine the location, extension and severity by physical examination, so electro physiology studies are required for diagnosis. Electromyography is important and must be performed carefully especially in muscles that are clinical weakness.
Sample and Study Design: Report of a case.
Description of Case: This is the case of a 54-year-old female patient, who was received in the emergency room, with a luxation of the right shoulder by a car accident. After three attempts, the dislocation was reduced. The patient was referred to rehabilitation where a probable lesion for right brachial plexus elongation was detected. The patient received 5 months of rehabilitation treatment with functional electrotherapy, sensory stimulation and use of antioxidant medications, neuromodulators and disodium monofostate cytidine. An electromyography was conducted before and after the rehabilitation treatment which suggested an improvement for patient recovery.
Conclusion: This case is an example that some lesions of brachial plexus can be management without surgery.
Keywords: Brachial plexus, plexopathy, electromyography, electrotherapy, case report