Brachial Plexus Treatment Program

Our Doctors/Providers

Physicians/Providers:

Adam Bartlett, MD

Co-Director, Brachial Plexus Treatment Center; Pediatric Physiatrist

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Stephanie Russo, MD, PhD

Co-Director, Brachial Plexus Treatment Center; Pediatric Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgeon

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Jaime Bass, OTR/L, CHT

Occupational Therapist; Certified Hand Therapist

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Specialty Programs

Open Clinical Studies

Patient Forms

• Brachial Plexus Clinic New Patient Letter

Videos

What to Expect

Your first visit may take place in one of our provider’s individual clinics to confirm the diagnosis of a brachial plexus injury.

At your brachial plexus clinic visit, you and your child will be seen by our team of providers. The team includes surgeons with expertise in orthopedic and peripheral nerve surgery, a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor with expertise in brachial plexus injuries and other nerve conditions, occupational therapists experienced in treating brachial plexus injuries, and a social worker who can help coordinate care services. For young children, toys and other interactive strategies are utilized to help make your child feel comfortable. This allows us to observe how your child uses their arms in addition to a typical physical exam. Sometimes a diagnostic study such as an ultrasound can be performed during the visit if it is needed. Additionally, we will help coordinate therapy services near your home and any other care that may be of benefit to your child.

Publications

View publications by our staff.

Brachial Plexus Injuries & Conditions

Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries

Brachial plexus birth injuries are one of the most common birth injuries, occurring in about 1 in every 1,000 births. While there is usually no emergency treatment needed, early diagnosis and intervention will help your child achieve the best level of function possible in his shoulder, arm and hand. About 70 percent of children with brachial plexus birth injuries make a complete recovery.

Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injuries

Traumatic brachial plexus injuries may occur after motor vehicle collisions or other injuries. Evaluation includes a detailed history and physical examination. Other tests such as x-rays, MRI or CT scans, or electrodiagnostic studies may be used as well. Treatment is multi-disciplinary and often includes occupational or physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments. It is helpful to evaluate patients early and over time to decide if surgery is recommended or not.

Other Brachial Plexus Conditions

The brachial plexus can also be affected by viral illness or autoimmune conditions. These may include acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), transverse myelitis, neuralgic amyotrophy (Parsonage-Turner syndrome) and other conditions. A history and physical examination, as well as other tests such as MRI studies, electrodiagnostic studies, or laboratory tests, help make the diagnosis. Depending on the diagnosis and natural recovery, surgery may or may not be recommended in addition to other treatments such as occupational therapy or medical treatments.