United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Upper deltoid works, Lower deltoid or post-terior doesn't

Hello everyone. I was in a motorcycle accident about 7 months ago. Initially, I couldn't move my arm in two directions (no deltoid or superscapular muscle working). After two months, the rotator cuff muscles came back and I could raise my arm again. At about 6 months the upper deltoid started to come back. However, the lower deltoid hasn't come back yet. So, I can't reach my arm backwards or to the side when I spin my wrist to face outwards. The doctor said that I have one week to decide if I want to have surgery. I am leaning towards "no" at this point because he stated that the chance of recovery is 60% and it could be worse than now. Any comments would be appreciated. I am a 28 year old male and I hope to play softball again. thank you.

I'm puzzled that the doctor has said you have one week to decide, after 7 months that seems a bit odd. Seems as though you're being pressurised. Is it nerve grafting or transfer surgery he is suggesting? Where is your doctor and what is his previous experience with trauma brachial plexus injuries? And have you thought of getting a second opinion? Sorry, I asked you lots of questions! but it does make it easier to answer. It may well be that any deficits in the nerve recovery can be helped by secondary surgery, which is not time sensitive.
I do think a second opinion might make things clearer, good luck.
Jen NZ

This doctor is my second opinion. I guess the doctors like to perform surgeries with the 6-8 month range. Since I can already move my arm in most directions except to reach backwards and to the side when I rotate my palm outwards, the surgery seems scary that it could also get worse. I am preparing a list of questions and will discuss before surgery.