Warning

Please also refer to the Brachial Plexus website.  There is a national brachial plexus injury service at the New Victoria Hospital, Glasgow that should be contacted within 48 hours of identification of injury or immediately if there is vascular injury or an open wound.

Risk Factors:

  • High speed RTC, especially motorcycle.
  • Fracture or dislocation of shoulder, scapular or elbow.
  • Open injury to neck, arm or upper quadrant of trunk.
  • Arterial injury in upper limb.
  • Traction injury to upper limb.

Signs:

  • Swelling above and/or below the clavicle.
  • Horners sign.
  • Severe pain in upper limb.
  • Paralysis.
  • Sensory loss.

Paediatric brachial plexus injuries should  be referred to Plastics at RHCYP. The Consultant Paediatric Hand Plastic Surgeon is Mr Wee Lam. 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 01/09/2021

Next review date: 01/09/2024

Version: 1.0