Obstetrical brachial plexus injury (OBPI) is a condition that can occur during childbirth when the nerves in the baby's shoulder are stretched or torn. This can cause a variety of symptoms that can severely impact the child's daily life. If you suspect your child has OBPI or have been diagnosed, it's important to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment options.

Causes:

OBPI can occur during childbirth when the baby's shoulder becomes stuck in the mother's pelvis, and the doctor uses excessive force to free the baby. This can cause the nerves in the baby's shoulder to stretch or tear, resulting in OBPI. In some cases, the injury may be due to the baby's position in the womb or a large baby size.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of OBPI can include a lack of movement or weakness in the affected arm or hand, muscle atrophy, and abnormal positioning of the arm or hand. These symptoms can vary in severity, and in some cases, the child may not experience symptoms until later in childhood.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose OBPI, your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. Your doctor may also order electromyography (EMG) to evaluate the function of the affected nerves.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for OBPI depends on the severity of the injury and the age of the child. In mild cases, physical therapy and occupational therapy may be recommended to improve the child's muscle strength and range of motion. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged nerves.

Recovery Process:

The recovery process for OBPI can be lengthy and may involve physical therapy and occupational therapy to help the child regain strength and function in the affected arm or hand. The recovery process can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the age of the child.

Institute of Advanced Reconstruction:

If your child has been diagnosed with OBPI, it's important to seek treatment from an experienced and reputable surgeon. The Institute of Advanced Reconstruction, based in New Jersey, is one of the best practices with top surgeons in this specialty in the world. Led by Dr. Andrew Elkwood and Dr. Michael Rose, the Institute offers a range of treatments for OBPI, including surgery. To learn more about the Institute and its services, visit their website at https://www.advancedreconstruction.com/.

In conclusion, OBPI can be a challenging condition for children and their families, but with the right treatment and care, children can recover and regain function. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment options is crucial. The Institute of Advanced Reconstruction is one of the best practices with top surgeons in this specialty in the world and can provide expert care and treatment for OBPI. If your child is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed with OBPI, reach out to the Institute of Advanced Reconstruction for the best possible care and treatment options available.