United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I am interested in hearing from parents with older (age 5-??) kids that have BPI. My daughter is 2 1/2 and I am contemplating surgery. She has a mild case and I am curious to know how kids have turned out who have had surgery and who haven't. Thanks.

Thanks for the insight. We just came from another surgeon who is telling us that Emma doesn't have to have the surgery, but that it is an option if we want to have it done. She is just mildly limited in what she can do. He suggests that we keep her in therapy and keep her very active so that if we want to have the surgery down the road, we can. We are relieved that we don't have to do it right now and we can take longer to make this decision.

Hi just thought I would touch base. My son Justin will be six in February. He too, from what what we have been told has a very mild case. He has not had any surgery to date though he is schedule for his first in January at TCH. It is mostly cosmetic. He has a contracture of the elbow. The procedure is called bicep tendon lengthening and will straighten the arm, we hope. Up until now he has never been hindered from his bpi. Feel free to write me with any other questions. Good luck!

I would love to hear more about they types of function that Justin and any other kids have gotten to without surgery. My son is 11 months old and seems to have a mild injury and I am curious to see what others of similar nature have gotten to.
Thanks
Kristie

Oh I forgot... What Docs have you been going to?
Thanks again
Kristie

The problem with asking other parents about how their kids are doing is that no two kids are alike, no two injuries are alike and no two kids recoveries will be the same. I'm sorry to tell you this.

Best to find the best brachial specialists and get 1-2-even 3 opinions of what they think should be done for your child. If it's nothing - then they will tell you. All the docs I know are pretty on board not wanting to do unnecessary surgery - especially on a child!

Maia is 3 1/2 and if you'd like to see pictures and read about her you can at http://www.injurednewborn.com/maia/homepage.html.

Good luck making these hard decisions - I know they are really tough and I wish you strength in finding the right answer for you and your child.

-francine

Hi- my name is Sandra and my son Alek has a right BPI-Alek is 6 and has had 3 surgeries, with Dr. Nath, and will undergo his 4th in February. He had his initial surgery( the Mod Quad) when he was 2 1/2. He has had awesome results, and much improved function- most who meet him say that they hardly notice the difference- of course we know that it is noticable. They are so great with the kids at TCH and the children do so much better when they are younger. I hope all goes well for you no matter what you decide!!
Best Wishes-
Sandra and Alek