- See:
Obstetrical Paralysis:
- Discussion:
- injury to the lower roots (
C8
and
T1 ) & or
C7 ;
- may follow forceful abduction of shoulder, produces weakness in intrinsics of
hand as well as long flexors & extensors of the fingers;
- these lesions are usually
preganglionic;
- look for an associated Horner's syndrome;
- sensory deficit is along the medial aspect of the arm, forearm, hand;
- Characteristics of Lower Cord Injuries:
- C4-
C7
roots are well secured to their respective vertebrae & are less prone
to avulsion areas;
-
C8 and
T1
roots are not well secured;
-
T1 level
preganglionic injuries often include a Horner's syndrome
due to disrupting the first sympathetic ganglion;
- traction injuries are most common at
C5 and
C6
levels;
- proximal cord lesions will injure supraclavicular branches + distal
plexus and will lead to winging of scapula; (see
long thoracic);
