Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) aided full-length phrenic nerve transfer for restoration of elbow flexion

BACKGROUND: In complete brachial plexus injury, phrenic nerve (PN) is frequently used in neurotization for elbow flexion restoration. The advancement in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) allows full-length PN dissection intrathoracically for direct coaptation to recipient without nerve graft. PURPOSE: We report our experience in improving the surgical technique and its outcome. METHODS: Seven patients underwent PN dissection via VATS and full-length transfer to musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) or motor branch of biceps (MBB) from June 2015 to June 2018. Comparisons were made with similar group of patients who underwent conventional PN transfer. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 21.9 years. All were males involved in motorcycle accidents who sustained complete brachial plexus injury. We found the elbow flexion recovery were earlier in full-length PN transfer. However, there was no statistically significant difference in elbow flexion strength at 3 years post-surgery. CONCLUSION: We propose full-length PN transfer for restoration of elbow flexion in patients with delayed presentation.