The brachial plexus nerves are a complex network that originates in the lower part of the neck and extends into the arm.
This structure plays a fundamental role in the motor and sensory innervation of the upper limb, allowing not only movement but also sensation in the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand.
Brachial plexus
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves formed from spinal nerves. This network of brachial plexus nerves is divided into sections: roots, trunks, divisions, cords, and terminal branches. Each of these parts contributes to the innervation of specific structures in the upper limb.
The brachial plexus is essential for controlling the entire arm from the shoulder. Each section of this network has its particular functions, but together they help control the muscles, provide sensation to different parts of the arm, allow flexion of the arm, forearm, hand, and fingers, and enable sensory function of the hand, among other examples.
Brachial plexus injury
Due to the complexity of the brachial plexus nerves, various injuries can occur, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the cause and extent of the damage.
Brachial plexus injuries are usually classified based on their location and severity:
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- Neuropraxia: a mild injury caused by a temporary interruption of nerve conduction, commonly seen in cases of sudden stretching.
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- Axonotmesis: affects the axon of the nerve, but the myelin sheath remains intact. Recovery may take several months.
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- Neurotmesis: a severe injury involving complete disruption of the nerve. Recovery may require surgical intervention and is not always fully achieved.
There are multiple causes that can lead to these injuries, such as trauma from traffic accidents or sports injuries. They may also result from compression due to tumors or fractures. Disorders such as brachial neuritis or other conditions may cause inflammation or infections that lead to these injuries.
Symptoms of a brachial plexus injury may include muscle weakness, arm paralysis, loss of sensation, sharp burning pain, and, if left untreated, muscle atrophy.
Brachial plexus block
Thanks to their unique characteristics, the nerves of the brachial plexus make it possible to perform a regional anesthetic technique known as a brachial plexus block. This technique is used to provide analgesia or anesthesia for upper limb surgical procedures and can also be applied in the management of chronic pain, such as in cases of brachial plexus neuralgia.
Among the main indications for performing a block are surgeries of the shoulder, arm, forearm, or hand; fracture reduction; management of postoperative pain; and the diagnosis or treatment of chronic pain.
The brachial plexus nerves are a crucial structure for the function of the upper limb, and injuries to this nerve network can have a significant impact on quality of life.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
Medline Plus, NIH, Scielo
