Causative Factor in Brachial Plexus Injury and Electro-Diagnostic Results in Tertiary Care Hospital

Objective: To determine the etiological factors of brachial plexus injury (BPI) in relation with electro-phyiolgic results in a tertiary care hospital. Study Design: Retrospective review of electrophysiological data from 2002 to 2012 Place and Duration of Study: Electrophysiological data of 197 patients from 2002 to 2012 was analyzed in electro-diagnostic centre of the Neurology department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad. Material and Method: After taking a history and clinical examination, Nerve conduction studies (NCS) test was performed with standard procedure. Electromyogram (EMG) study was done to further confirm the severity, site and the level of lesion. Results: Road traffic accident (RTA) and bullet injury were causes of BPI in majority of patients. They were 43% and 24% respectively. Birth trauma caused 13% BPI. Less common cause includes: fall, bomb blast, and hit by rolling stone from hill. Upper roots (C5-C6) and upper trunk, either alone or in combination with other roots were injured much more frequently than the lower roots and trunk. Conclusion: Trauma is the number one cause of BPI. This is followed by bullet injury and birth related trauma. In RTA motor cycle accident is the commonest cause. Upper roots are more affected than roots.