Brachial Plexus Neuropathy after Revision of Clavicular Fracture Nonunion: A Case Report
10.12671/jkfs.2020.33.1.22
- Author:
Youngwoo KIM
1
;
Suk Kyu CHOO
;
Neunghan JEON
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, Uijeongbu, Korea.
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Clavicle;
Nonunion;
Brachial plexus neuropathy
- MeSH:
Bony Callus;
Brachial Plexus Neuropathies;
Brachial Plexus;
Cicatrix;
Clavicle;
Elbow;
Hand;
Humans;
Neurologic Manifestations;
Risk Factors;
Transplants;
Upper Extremity
- From:Journal of the Korean Fracture Society
2020;33(1):22-26
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
We performed a revisionary open reduction and internal fixation for treating nonunion of the mid-shaft of the left clavicle with an autogenous cancellous bone graft. On postoperative day 4, the patient presented with neurologic deficits in the left upper extremity. We removed the implant and made a superior angulation to decompress the brachial plexus. At 6 months postoperatively, callus bridging and consolidation were visible and all hand and elbow functions were fully recovered. Our case suggests that brachial plexus neuropathy may be caused by stretching and compression after reduction and straightening of the nonunion site around adhesions or scar tissue. Therefore, care should be taken whether there are the risk factors that can cause brachial plexus neuropathy when revision surgery is performed for treating nonunion of a clavicle shaft fracture.
