Semin Plast Surg 2004; 18(4): 377-384
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-837263
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy: Rationale for a Multicenter Prospective Study

Peter M. Waters1 , Donald S. Bae1
  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
06 December 2004 (online)

ABSTRACT

While the majority of patients with brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) demonstrate spontaneous recovery, some will have persistent neurological deficits and functional limitations. Microsurgical repair and/or reconstruction of the brachial plexus are often recommended for these patients; however, the optimal timing of microsurgery is unknown. Furthermore, the long-term outcomes of microsurgery, as compared with natural history and secondary reconstructive surgery, are unknown. The purpose of this article is to present the rationale for the multicenter prospective study of the treatment of BPBP. The current study protocol is provided.

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Peter M WatersM.D. 

Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children's Hospital

300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 2

Boston, MA 02115

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