Nerve transfer to musculocutaneous for elbow flexion restoration in brachial plexus injury (Ulnar and/or Median vs. Intercostal): A systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies.

ABSTRACT: Nerve transfers are a cornerstone in the surgical management of traumatic brachial plexus injuries (BPIs) to restore elbow flexion. Common donor nerves include intraplexal sources like the ulnar and median nerves (fascicular transfers) and extraplexal sources like the intercostal nerves (ICNs). Despite the widespread use of both techniques, the optimal donor nerve remains a subject of debate. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare these techniques for restoring elbow flexion in BPIs. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify comparative studies. The quality of the studies included was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta-analyses were performed to compare motor recovery (≥ M3), time t

SUBMITTER: Genedy MKA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12380866 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature