Obstetric Brachial Plexus
Brachial plexus injury in children is most commonly a complication of difficult childbirth and results from the stretching of the complex network of nerves that supply the arms. Damage can also arise from other traumatic causes or as a consequence of tumours in the region of the brachial plexus.
In a proportion of cases, there is a need for specialist assessment, rehabilitation and monitorring, and in a small number of these, a requirement for shoulder surgery and/or nerve repair. Approximately 30 referrals for specialist assessment and rehabilitation are anticipated per year, of which 10 are likely to require reconstructive or corrective shoulder surgery. The benefits of interventional surgery, where required, are life-long in the majority of cases.
In 2007/8 there were 26 referrals of which 3 cases required surgery.
This two year old national service is provided by the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Glasgow.
Annual Report
The most recent annual report for Obstetric Brachial Plexus service is available below:
Scottish National Obstetric Brachial Plexus Injury Service annual report 2009/10 [14 pages, 301Kb]
Lead clinician:
Mr Tim Hems, Orthopaedic Surgeon
Service contact address:
NHS Greater Glasgow ans Clyde
Western Infirmary
Dumbarton Road
GLASGOW
G11 6NT
National Services Division contacts:
To contact members of NSD staff, please visit our staff contacts page.
Isabel Gavin, Programme Manager
Tracey Curtis, Assistant Programme Manager
Carol Woods, Programme Support Officer
