United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I originally posted about my son. We went ahead and had the nerve graft surgery on Monday. It was originally going to be the 11th, but they had a cancellation and asked if we wanted the spot. We were at peace with the decision. After our specialist believed he would benefit from surgery, he wanted to do it as soon as possible for the best possible outcome. It was 10 hours long and the time flew by! The nurse assisting our specialist updated us every hour! C5 and C6 were ruptured and C7 and C8 were avulsed (torn from the spine). We are very glad we went ahead and had the surgery, he would not have made much more progress with thay extent of damage. They used nerves from both legs that control a patch in the foot. He is doing amazingly well. He hasn't cried much since we have been home and he is only on Tylenol now. It's amazing the new technology!

Wow, Glad it is all behind you. Also glad to hear he is doing well. And yes I think you made a good decision with the amount of damage. Our prayers for a speedy recovery and improvement.
Sue

Sounds like you made the right choice, for sure. I'm thinking about you. Keep us posted.

My daughter had a similar injury (C5-C7 ruptured and C8 & T1 avulsed) and we also decided to do surgery by 3 months time. She is now almost 3 and has sensation down to her fingertips and is gaining more strength and movement everyday. It will be a very long trying road to recovery and each child recovers at a different rate. Things get especially tough when they have not had the use of the arm for such a long time that they begin to compensate with their other arm or legs. All I can say is hang in there. My daughter is such a happy and well adjusted child and I'm so grateful to have her everyday. My husband and I often wonder if she would be such a great kid if she did not have this injury. Moving on to a state of acceptance is extremely hard but it can be done. Best wishes for a smooth recovery!

Carol, mom to Lucy, 3yrs, LOBPI

My daughter is scheduled for surgery the 26th of June. Although testing has not yet been done they anticipate C5-C7 rupture and C8-T1 avulsed because she has no movement at the bicep, wrist or hand (although she does now have excellent movement at the shoulder and has some muscle tone). Carol I would love to hear you and your daughter's story. Any information anyone could share to prepare for the journey ahead would be greatly appreciated!

Dawn, mother of Aubree 3 months