Microsurgical relations of the roots of the brachial plexus. Practical applications.

The brachial plexus roots were studied in 20 cadavers under magnification from their origin (division of the corresponding cervical spinal nerves) until their ending (origin of the corresponding trunks). Regional vascular injections were performed in 10 cases using colored latex. The means of fixation of each plexus root to the spine, as well as the collateral branches, the anastomoses and the vascular connections are described. The authors conclude by the description of a microsurgical posterior approach of C5-C6 and C7 up to their origin, with clinical applications.