Treatment of a proximal accessory nerve injury with nerve transfer.

OBJECTIVE AND HYPOTHESIS

This study presents a case report of a patient who sustained an iatrogenic proximal accessory nerve injury that was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer.

STUDY DESIGN

Case study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chart of one patient who was treated with a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer was reviewed.

RESULTS

Five months after excision of a branchial cyst that resulted in a very proximal injury to the accessory nerve, this patient underwent a medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer. At final follow-up, 3 years after surgery, the patient had full abduction overhead with some residual shoulder/scapular discomfort and mild scapular winging.

CONCLUSION

The medial pectoral to accessory nerve transfer provides a viable surgical option with good reinnervation of the trapezius muscle in patients with a proximal accessory nerve injury where standard nerve repair or graft techniques are not feasible.