Article
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging
Neha Antil, Yehia ElGuindy, Amelie M. Lutz
Summary: The study evaluated 701 routine shoulder MRI studies and found 4.85% of cases demonstrated abnormal findings of the distal brachial plexus cords or branches and/or musculature. 35.3% of these abnormal findings were not mentioned in the exam reports, mainly missing subtle nerve abnormalities.
EUROPEAN RADIOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Clinical Neurology
Haijun Li, Jinxiu Chen, Juehan Wang, Tianfang Zhang, Zuobing Chen
Summary: Brachial plexus injury (BPI) is a serious peripheral nerve injury that leads to severe and persistent impairments of the upper limb. The demand for rehabilitation treatment after BPI is increasing due to the relatively mature early diagnosis and surgical technique. Rehabilitation intervention can benefit different stages of recovery, but the treatment methods vary due to the complexity of the brachial plexus. This article explores the potential contributions of various methods to BPI rehabilitation and provides a concise overview of beneficial interventions, forming clear rehabilitation processes based on different periods and populations.
FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY
(2023)
Article
Rehabilitation
Sonja M. Buitenhuis, Willem Pondaag, Ron Wolterbeek, Martijn J. A. Malessy
Summary: The study aimed to investigate factors causing impaired hand function in children with upper Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy (NBPP) by analyzing tactile hand sensibility, particularly the ability to correctly localize sensory stimulus on their fingers. Compared to healthy controls, children with NBPP showed significantly diminished ability to localize stimuli on their fingertips, except for the little finger. This finding is likely one of the factors contributing to hand function impairment and should be addressed through sensory focused therapy.
ARCHIVES OF PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION
(2023)
Review
Clinical Neurology
Ruhui Xiao, Jiao Chen, Chen Zeng, Xu Feng, Tao Li, Sushant-kumar Das, Bing Li, Chuan Zhang, Hanfeng Yang
Summary: This paper systematically elaborates on brachial plexus neuropathy, morphological and functional imaging, and post-processing. As the incidence of peripheral neurological diseases increases, the precise display of nerves becomes important in imaging examinations.
NEUROLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Niki T. Patel, Heather F. Smith
Summary: Anatomical variations in the brachial plexus can lead to various clinically relevant patterns, such as neuralgias and differing nerve territories in the upper extremities. This study explored the frequency and anatomical presentations of brachial plexus nerve variations, identifying branching variants that clinicians should be aware of. These variations include the dual cord innervation of the medial pectoral nerves, the thoracodorsal nerve arising from the axillary nerve, and branches between the musculocutaneous and median nerves, as well as between the medial antebrachial cutaneous and medial brachial cutaneous nerves.
Article
Clinical Neurology
Alessandro Salvalaggio, Daniele Coraci, Laura Obici, Mario Cacciavillani, Marco Luigetti, Anna Mazzeo, Francesca Pastorelli, Marina Grandis, Tiziana Cavallaro, Giulia Bisogni, Alessandro Lozza, Chiara Gemelli, Luca Gentile, Massimo Russo, Mario Ermani, Gian Maria Fabrizi, Rosaria Plasmati, Federica De Napoli, Marta Campagnolo, Francesca Castellani, Fabrizio Salvi, Silvia Fenu, Grazia Devigili, Davide Pareyson, Roberto Gasparotti, Claudio Rapezzi, Carlo Martinoli, Luca Padua, Chiara Briani
Summary: The study conducted a widespread nerve ultrasound evaluation, finding that the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the brachial plexus significantly increased in both patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) and pre-symptomatic carriers, serving as a longitudinal biomarker for disease progression and occurrence.
JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY
(2022)
Article
Orthopedics
Unai Jambrina-Abasolo, Dragos Hutanu, Diego Gonzalez-Morgado, Ferran Blasco-Casado, Juliana Rojas-Neira, Francisco Soldado
Summary: Impairment of shoulder extension and behind-the-back function is common in patients with residual neonatal brachial plexus injury. This study found that both passive glenohumeral extension (PGE) and active shoulder extension (ASE) angles can be reliably measured with a clinical exam, and at least 10 degrees of extension is necessary to perform the hand-to-spine Mallet task.
JOURNAL OF SHOULDER AND ELBOW SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging
Emily J. J. Davidson, Ek T. T. Tan, Emily G. G. Pedrick, Darryl B. B. Sneag
Summary: Magnetic resonance neurography of the brachial plexus is challenging but can be improved through optimization of imaging techniques, resulting in better image quality and diagnostic confidence for guiding nonoperative and operative management.
INVESTIGATIVE RADIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Courtney Carlson Strother, Nichole Joslyn-Eastman, Michelle F. Loosbrok, Nicholas Pulos, Allen T. Bishop, Robert J. Spinner, Alexander Y. Shin
Summary: This study evaluated the demographics, treatment options, and outcomes of traumatic brachial plexus injuries in pediatric patients. The results showed that most patients were able to regain antigravity elbow flexion or stronger after reconstruction surgery. Treatment should focus on improving elbow flexion, shoulder stability/external rotation, and rudimentary grasp.
WORLD NEUROSURGERY
(2022)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Jaafar Basma, Andrew J. Gienapp, Kenan Arnautovic, Petros Konofaos
Summary: This article discusses the historical background of the clinical description of brachial plexus injury and uncovers earlier documentation than previously thought. Through the study of ancient texts and anatomical descriptions, it is revealed that Galen's teachings continued to thrive and develop in the East. This research is important for understanding the history of brachial plexus injury and the development of ancient medicine.
JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY
(2022)
Review
Immunology
Chunhui Gao, Bowen Ma, Wei Liu, Liqin Zhu
Summary: Beta-lactam antibiotics are frequently used drugs in pediatrics but also common causes of allergic reactions. Skin testing, such as penicillin and cephalosporin tests, are used to predict allergic reactions in children. However, false-positive results are more common in pediatric skin tests, leading to unnecessary use of alternative antibiotics and increasing antibiotic resistance. There is controversy over whether beta-lactam antibiotic skin tests should be conducted in children. This study analyzes the mechanism of anaphylaxis, the significance of skin tests, and the problems with current practices to establish a unified standard for skin tests in pediatrics.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Oncology
Jong-Lyel Roh
Summary: Intracapsular enucleation is a safe and effective treatment for preserving nerve function in patients with brachial plexus schwannomas.
Article
Clinical Neurology
Mohamed A. Bedewi, Mamdouh A. Kotb
Summary: The objective of this study was to estimate the reference values of the brachial plexus roots at the interscalene groove in healthy adult volunteers. There were significant differences in CSA values between sexes and positive correlations between different nerve roots. Gender differences were observed, while tissue stiffness and demographic factors had no significant correlation.
NEUROLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Isamu Ozaki, Miho Akaza, Taishi Watanabe, Yuki Miyano, Yoshiaki Adachi, Shigenori Kawabata
Summary: The objective of this study was to visualize impulse conduction along the brachial plexus through simultaneous electromagnetic measurements. Neuromagnetic fields following median nerve stimulation were recorded and reconstructed into pseudocolor maps and isopotential contour maps. The results showed the spatial extent and correlation between intra-axonal currents and compound nerve action potentials (CNAPs). This non-invasive functional imaging modality, called magnetoneurography, has potential for surpassing electric potential measurement. Rating: 8/10.
CLINICAL NEUROPHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Mariano Socolovsky, Karina Barillaro, Gonzalo Bonilla, Gilda Di Masi, Martijn Malessy
Summary: This study investigates the levels of disconnection and reconnection in nerve transfers for brachial plexus injuries. A novel plasticity grading scale was developed and used to assess the volitional control achieved. The study found that only approximately 20% of patients achieved complete control over the reinnervated muscle.
JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY
(2023)
Article
Rehabilitation
Alma Viviana Silva Guerrero, Jenny Setchell, Annick Maujean, Michele Sterling
Summary: Semi-structured interviews with patients who participated in a recent randomised clinical trial on the integrated intervention of stress inoculation training (SIT) and exercise for acute whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) revealed that most patients found the SIT techniques helpful in managing stress, pain, coping with injury, and returning to function. Patients also recognized the usefulness of exercise and the importance of addressing both physical and psychological aspects of whiplash injury.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2022)
Article
Anesthesiology
Jane Nikles, Gerben Keijzers, Geoffrey Mitchell, Scott F. Farrell, Siegfried Perez, Stephan Schug, Robert S. Ware, Samuel A. McLean, Luke B. Connelly, Michele Sterling
Summary: A double blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the potential effectiveness of pregabalin for acute whiplash-associated disorders (WADs). The results suggest that pregabalin may be more effective than placebo in reducing neck pain intensity, although feasibility issues need to be addressed.
Article
Rehabilitation
Carrie Ritchie, Kelly Clanchy, Michele Sterling, Robyn Tate, Esther J. Smits, Melissa Day, Jane Nikles, Jenna Liimatainen, Sean M. Tweedy
Summary: This study evaluated the efficacy of a theory-based intervention aimed at promoting physically active behavior in people with persistent WAD. The results showed significant improvements in physical and psychological health for the majority of participants, demonstrating the potential benefits of community-located physical activity promotion strategies for individuals with persistent WAD.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2022)
Review
Rehabilitation
Rachel A. Elphinston, Atiyeh Vaezipour, James A. Fowler, Trevor G. Russell, Michele Sterling
Summary: Purpose Driving phobia is prevalent in injured individuals following motor vehicle crashes. The evidence for virtual reality (VR) based psychological treatments for driving phobia is unknown. The limited evidence suggests that VR-based psychological interventions may be feasible and acceptable in this population, but more high-quality trials are needed.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2023)
Article
Rehabilitation
Aila Nica Bandong, Trudy Rebbeck, Martin Mackey, Michele Sterling, Joan Kelly, Carrie Ritchie, Andrew Leaver
Summary: This study aimed to explore health professionals' acceptance of guidelines for acute whiplash-associated disorders (WAD), and identify barriers and facilitators to adherence. The results revealed that acceptance of the guidelines was influenced by factors related to the guidelines themselves, practitioner and practice characteristics, and patient-related factors. Some professionals showed selective acceptance of key recommendations in the guidelines.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2023)
Article
Anesthesiology
Lisa Buckley, Michele Sterling, Rachel A. Elphinston
Summary: The impacts of COVID-19 and restrictions on chronic noncancer pain patients vary across countries, but recent research suggests that the pandemic may not have a significant effect on pain management as initially thought. A longitudinal study found that patients reported improvements in pain severity, interference, opioid misuse, and mental health symptoms over time. Factors such as current employment, older age, and higher pain self-efficacy predicted reductions in pain interference. The study highlights the negligible impact of COVID-19 on pain and mental health in the early stages of the pandemic.
Article
Rehabilitation
Rutger M. J. de Zoete, Jane Nikles, Jeff S. Coombes, Patrick Onghena, Michele Sterling
Summary: This study compared the effectiveness of different types of exercise for chronic whiplash associated disorder (WAD) and found that aerobic exercise may be more effective for this condition.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Scott F. Farrell, Pik-Fang Kho, Mischa Lundberg, Adrian I. Campos, Miguel E. Renteria, Rutger M. J. de Zoete, Michele Sterling, Trung Thanh Ngo, Gabriel Cuellar-Partida
Summary: Through genome-wide association studies, researchers identified genetic correlations and causal genetic variants associated with chronic pain types, as well as their associations with various biopsychosocial traits. These findings lay the groundwork for further studies in developing diagnostics and therapies for chronic pain.
Letter
Anesthesiology
Eva Kosek, Daniel Clauw, Jo Nijs, Ralf Baron, Ian Gilron, Richard E. Harris, Andrew S. C. Rice, Michele Sterling
Article
Rehabilitation
Bhavya Adalja, Tammy Aplin, Michele Sterling, Venerina Johnston
Summary: This study aimed to understand the current utilization of the clinical framework for managing compensable musculoskeletal injuries by interviewing insurer case managers and clinical panel members. The findings revealed suboptimal use of the framework, leading to issues such as lack of evidence-based treatment. Identified barriers to optimal use included inadequate training of healthcare professionals. The study suggested that training from peak associations, insurers, and regulating bodies could improve the utilization of the framework and ultimately result in better health and work outcomes.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Scott F. F. Farrell, Michele Sterling, David M. M. Klyne, Sanam Mustafa, Adrian I. Campos, Pik-Fang Kho, Mischa Lundberg, Miguel E. E. Renteria, Trung Thanh Ngo, Gabriel Cuellar-Partida
Summary: This study found a genetic correlation between blood C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and chronic back, neck/shoulder, and widespread pain, suggesting a potential causal effect of higher CRP levels on these pain conditions. Further studies are needed to identify novel therapeutic targets and strategies.
EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Anesthesiology
Rutger M. J. de Zoete, Katie L. McMahon, Jeff S. Coombes, Michele Sterling
Summary: This study investigated the neurobiological effects of aerobic and strengthening exercise on individuals with chronic whiplash associated disorder (WAD). The results showed no differences in brain changes between exercise groups, but differences in structural and functional changes were found between WAD and control groups, indicating that altered central pain modulatory response may be responsible for differential effects of exercise in individuals with chronic WAD.
Review
Neurosciences
Scott F. Farrell, Devon Edmunds, John Fletcher, Harry Martine, Hashem Mohamed, Jenna Liimatainen, Michele Sterling
Summary: Physiotherapists are increasingly using psychological treatments for musculoskeletal conditions. This study assessed the effects of physiotherapist-delivered psychological interventions on pain, disability, and quality of life in neck pain. The results showed that psychological interventions delivered by physiotherapists were more effective than standard physiotherapy for chronic nontraumatic neck pain (NTNP) and, in the short term, acute whiplash-associated disorder (WAD).
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Eloise Yates, Lisa Buckley, Michele Sterling, Tegan Cruwys, Claire E. Ashton-James, Renee Rankin, Rachel A. Elphinston
Summary: This study aimed to co-design accessible interventions to increase pain self-efficacy, social connection, pain-related outcomes, and quality of life. The study explored patients' interest and preferences for digital peer-delivered interventions for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) as well as implementation barriers and enablers.
JMIR FORMATIVE RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Civil
M. Sterling, S. Huo, C. J. Baker
Summary: This paper investigates the crop fall patterns caused by thunderstorm downburst-like events as a way to understand the flow structure of a downburst. A novel three-dimensional analytical model and a generalized plant model are developed to explore this phenomenon. The study introduces the concept of the lodging front, a dimensionless variable used to quantify the spatial extent of crop failure. Comparison with full-scale data suggests that the model is capable of predicting realistic crop fall patterns and may be used to assess the strength of downbursts in the future.
JOURNAL OF WIND ENGINEERING AND INDUSTRIAL AERODYNAMICS
(2023)
