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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2022; 26(02): 182-193
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1742392
Review Article

Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy: Practical Concepts for Radiologists

Pedro González-Mantilla 
1   Geisinger Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
,
Angela Abril
1   Geisinger Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
,
Maria Alejandra Bedoya
2   Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Abstract

Brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) is classified as a preganglionic or postganglionic injury based on the site of injury. Most patients recover spontaneously and are followed up with clinical evaluation; however, permanent sequelae are not uncommon. For patients with persistent neurologic deficits, clinical and radiologic evaluation is crucial. Untreated BPBP can progress to significant sequelae, such as muscle contractures and glenohumeral dysplasia (GHD). Timely characterization of these entities based on different imaging modalities is a high priority for optimal patient outcomes. We describe the anatomy and pathogenesis, as well as the different imaging modalities involved in the evaluation and classification of BPBP and GHD.

Keywords

brachial plexus birth palsy - neonatal brachial plexus palsy - brachial plexus birth injury - glenohumeral dysplasia


Publication History

Article published online:
24 May 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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