THE EFFECT OF UNILATERAL INTERCOSTAL NERVE TRANSFER UPON LUNG FUNCTION

Intercostal nerve transfer is a well-established technique in the treatment of some severe brachial plexus lesions in adults. There is, however, concern that in the presence of an ipsilateral phrenic nerve palsy it may lead to a significant compromise of respkatory function. 20 patients having intercostal nerve transfers had their lung function assessed pre-operatively and 6 weeks post-operatively. The patients were subsequently questioned about symptoms of respiratory dysfunction. There was no evidence that intercostal nerve transfer leads to a significant reduction in respiratory function in adults. It therefore appears safe to perform intercostal nerve transfers in adults following brachial plexus injuries even in the presence of an ipsilateral phrenic nerve palsy. Journal of Hand Surgery (British and European Volume 1995) 20B: 5:675-676 Intercostal nerve transfer ( ICNT) is now a well-recognized technique for re-innervation of the upper limb following brachial plexus injuries (Narakas, 1984). It is particularly effective in reducing pain, and can also give an MRC grade 4 biceps function (Birch, 1992; Chuang et al, 1992)