Brachial Plexus Program

The Brachial Plexus Program, within the Orthopedic Center, is a national and international referral center for children with brachial plexus birth palsy. Our brachial plexus team provides complete care – from early nerve surgery, early therapy, to later reconstructive orthopedic surgery and therapy if needed.

Using a research and innovation driven approach, our team of surgeons, nurses and therapists have cared for more than 1,200 children with brachial plexus birth palsy.  

What is the brachial plexus?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves which run from the cervical spinal cord to the muscles of the upper limb. Brachial plexus birth palsy refers to an injury to these nerves sustained during childbirth. The nerves of the brachial plexus may be stretched, compressed, or torn. This may result in loss of muscle function and subsequent paralysis of the upper limb. Injuries may affect all or only a part of the brachial plexus, resulting in varying degrees of upper extremity involvement.

Our specialties:

• microsurgical reconstruction
• nerve grafts and transfers
• tendon transfers
• osteotomies
• Open reduction of the shoulder joint (capsulorraphy)
• physical therapy/ occupational therapy
• parental support
• clinical and basic science research