Introduction: Brachial plexus Injuries are devastating to patients and their families. Most patients are young, and the injury involves the dominant upper limb. Oberlin transfer is a viable option for restoring limb function for patients with upper trunk injuries. Double fascicle transfer can have better results, as the re-innervation occurs in 2 different muscles.
Methods: All patients who underwent Oberlin transfer for upper trunk injuries with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included. Data was retrieved retrospectively from hospital records, telephone conversations, and social media. Post-op functions were compared with pre-op status. Any added deficits were recorded.
Results: Over 5 years fifteen patients with double Oberlin transfer were recorded who had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. There were 12 male patients and 3 female patients. The mode of injury was a motorcycle accident in 13 and a motor vehicle (4-wheeler) accident in two. Dominant hand was involved in all patients. The mean duration of surgery was 4 months(3-6 months). All patients underwent double fascicle transfer ( ulnar fascicle to branch to brachialis and median fascicle to branch to biceps). Useful limb function(MRC>3/5) was achieved in 10/15 patients. There were no significant deficits in distal functions.
Conclusion : Therapeutic nihilism in brachial plexus injuries still remains in developing countries. The outcome largely depends not only on surgical skills and procedures but on long-term physiotherapy as well. Good results can be obtained if operated on time and adhered to an active physiotherapy regimen.
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