Plastic surgeons, physiotherapists and occupational therapists at Royal Children’s Hospital have produced a booklet ‘Understanding Brachial Plexus Palsy’ to inform and support parents, general practitioners and obstetricians dealing with this unpredictable childbirth injury.

The brachial plexus is the large network of nerves extending from the neck into the arm. The brachial plexus can be injured during childbirth when a baby is larger than average, however newborns of all sizes can suffer a brachial plexus injury.  A weakness of the arm is immediately obvious when the injury has occurred.  The muscle that the nerve serves will be inactive and begin to deteriorate, the arm may not grow normally and muscles and joints may tighten.  Treatment involves an immediate physiotherapy regime followed in many cases by up to six hours of microsurgery.

“The Royal Children’s Hospital leads the way in assessment and treatment of children with this injury and is one of only a few centers around the world offering such treatment,” said plastic surgeon Mr Bruce Johnstone. “It is the only hospital in Australia to have a multi-professional clinic devoted to this condition.”

Most hospitals report one to two babies being born with a brachial plexus injury per 1000 births.

“Difficulty delivering the baby’s shoulders is fortunately uncommon, but mostly unpredictable and unavoidable,” said obstetrician Dr Sue Walker. “When it occurs after delivery of the baby’s head, prompt delivery of the baby is essential to avoid any problems due to impaired oxygen supply.  Referral to a multi-disciplinary team, such as the Royal Children’s Hospital, offers these children and their families world class intervention, support and rehabilitation to ensure optimal long term outcome.”

The booklet was recently launched at Royal Children’s Hospital.  To obtain a copy of the booklet contact the Plastic Surgery Department on 9345 6583

Media enquiries contact Julie Webber 9345 5522 and page.