European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURY

*Nandhana M., Dr. Aarthi and Dr. Saravanakumar

ABSTRACT

The brachial plexus is a network of nerve running from the spine. It is formed by the ventral rami of the lower four cervical and first thoracic nerve roots (C5-C8, T1). It proceeds through the neck, the axilla (armpit region), and into the arm. It is a network of nerves passing through the cervico-axillary canal to reach axilla and innervates brachium (upper arm), ante brachium (fore arm) and hand. The brachial plexus is responsible for cutaneous and muscular innervation of the entire upper limb, with two exceptions: the trapezius muscle innervated by the spinal accessory nerve and an area of skin near the axilla innervated by the intercostobrachial nerve. Lesions can lead to severe functional impairment. Brachial plexus injuries affects the nerves which send signals from the spine to your shoulder. Brachial plexus injury is an umbrella term for a variety of conditions that may impair function of the brachial plexus nerve network. The majority of pediatric and adult brachial plexus injuries are caused by trauma. A brachial plexus injury occurring during birth is called birth related brachial plexus palsy orobstetric brachial plexus palsy.

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