Title: A Pictorial Essay of MRI Findings - Obstetric Brachial Plexopathy
Authors: Dr Dhruva B Shetty, Dr Balakrishna Shetty, Dr G Gurushankar, Dr Anand S.H
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v8i4.17
Abstract
Learning Objectives
Review of 25 patients with obstetric brachial plexus palsy and determine the effectiveness and spectrum of MRI findings in these infants, which will help in emphasizing on imaging techniques, subtypes of injuries and importance of early MRI.
Background
Brachial plexus palsy in neonates occurs when an infant's upper shoulder is obstructed by the pubic symphysis, nerve injury can occur anywhere along the brachial plexus. The most common site being supraclavicular part emanating varied neurologic deficits
Brachial plexopathies cannot be diagnosed accurately with clinical examination because of the complicated plexus design and also the types of lesions and injuries are frequently complex.
EMG provides functional involvement but lacks localization.
Improvements in the surgical field have made pre-surgical imaging a necessity.
The multiplanar, non-radiative and non invasive capabilities of MRI has made it the modality of choice
Objective
To determine the effectiveness and spectrum of MRI findings in infants with obstetric brachial plexus palsy, which will help in further management.