Axillary Nerve Palsy

April 23rd, 2007

Injury to the axillary nerve may result in the inability to raise the arm. Historically lengthy nerve grafts were required in an attempt to restore innervation to the deltoid muscle. Nerve transfer is the newest treatment, however. A branch of the radial nerve--that which innervates the long head of triceps-- can be sutured to the axillary nerve motor branch.

In the past 3 years we have performed 5 such procedures and our results have been consisted with reports in the literature. If successful,the procedure obviates the need for shoulder fusion.Surgery needs to be performed by 3-6 months after injury to increase the chances of success.

Related Photos:

deltoid atrophy postinjury

illustration showing the nerve transfer of long head radial nerve branch to motor branch of axillary nerve

surgical markings in the operating room

nerve repair after transfer

Related Videos:

preoperative shoulder motion

shoulder motion 3.5 months after nerve transfer