If you’re experiencing arm weakness, loss of sensation, or limited mobility following a nerve injury, brachial plexus surgery may help restore your function. Dr. Ketan Sharma specializes in treating complex nerve conditions and offers advanced surgical care to help you regain control, strength, and relief from chronic nerve pain.
What is Brachial Plexus Surgery?
Brachial plexus surgery is a specialized procedure to repair or reconstruct damaged nerves in the brachial plexus—a network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injury to this network of nerves can result in arm weakness, numbness, or even paralysis of the upper limb. Dr. Sharma performs advanced surgical techniques such as nerve grafts, nerve transfers, or decompression to restore nerve function and improve mobility.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms Indicating You May Need Brachial Plexus Surgery?
If you’ve experienced a nerve injury in your neck or shoulder area, you may be noticing lasting weakness or loss of function in your arm. When symptoms persist or worsen over time, surgical treatment may be necessary. Watch for signs like these:
- Severe weakness or paralysis in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Persistent numbness or tingling in the upper limb
- Loss of muscle control or coordination in the arm
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the shoulder
- Noticeable muscle wasting or atrophy in the arm
- Chronic, burning nerve pain radiating down the arm
- Lack of improvement with non-surgical therapies over several months
What Does Brachial Plexus Surgery Treat?
Brachial plexus surgery is used to treat injuries or conditions that affect the bundle of nerves running from your spine through your neck and into your arm. Damage to this network can occur due to trauma, inflammation, tumors, or pressure from surrounding structures, leading to pain, weakness, and loss of arm function.
If left untreated, some injuries may result in permanent nerve damage and disability. Dr. Sharma carefully evaluates the severity and location of the injury before recommending brachial plexus surgery.
What Happens During Brachial Plexus Surgery?
Brachial plexus surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure typically lasts several hours. Dr. Sharma begins by making a careful incision near the side of the neck or upper chest to expose the brachial plexus. Using an operating microscope, he evaluates the nerves for signs of stretch, scar, rupture, or avulsion. Depending on the injury, he may remove scar tissue, decompress pinched nerves, or perform nerve transfers—redirecting a healthy, functioning nerve to reinnervate a paralyzed muscle.
In cases where a nerve has been torn, Dr. Sharma may harvest a nerve graft from the leg, such as the sural nerve, and use it to bridge the gap between the damaged nerve ends. He ensures each nerve repair is precisely aligned using microsutures and fibrin glue. Once reconstruction is complete, the incision is closed, and the arm is typically immobilized to protect the repair.
What is Recovery Like After a Brachial Plexus Surgery?
Recovery from brachial plexus surgery is gradual and often requires months of rehabilitation. While the surgical site typically heals within a few weeks, full nerve regeneration may take 6 to 18 months, depending on the type and extent of the repair. You may experience temporary pain, swelling, or numbness in the arm, neck, or leg (if a graft was used). Physical therapy plays a vital role in regaining strength and function over time.
To support healing and maximize outcomes, it’s important to:
- Wear any prescribed brace or sling as directed
- Avoid lifting or straining the affected arm
- Attend regular physical therapy sessions
- Perform daily nerve gliding and stretching exercises
- Monitor for signs of infection or wound complications
- Keep follow-up appointments with Dr. Sharma
Why Choose Dr. Sharma for Brachial Plexus Surgery?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon with advanced fellowship training in complex peripheral nerve surgery. He specializes in treating patients with debilitating nerve injuries, including brachial plexus trauma, and is known for his surgical precision and excellent outcomes. With his in-depth understanding of nerve anatomy and expertise in microsurgical techniques, Dr. Sharma provides highly personalized surgical care to restore function.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sharma for brachial plexus surgery:
- Performs advanced nerve transfers and grafting techniques
- Experienced in treating high-complexity nerve injuries
- Offers comprehensive diagnostics and tailored surgical plans
- Prioritizes long-term functional recovery and pain relief
- Provides compassionate, one-on-one care throughout the process
Schedule a consultation today to learn how Dr. Sharma can help you regain strength and mobility after a brachial plexus injury.
