Limb length discrepancy in surgically treated obstetric brachial plexus palsy

Author

Abstract

Introduction and aim of work
The purpose of this investigation was to determine limb length discrepancy between affected and unaffected upper extremities in patients with obstetric brachial plexus palsy (OBPP).
Patients and methods
Fifty patients with OBPP underwent measurements of the bilateral upper extremities. The mean age at surgery was 12.6 months (4–84 months). Active motion was assessed using the Toronto Test Score.
Results
The total limb length averaged 93.3% of that of the normal side; the humeral length averaged 94.96%, whereas the forearm length averaged 91.76%.
Conclusion
No statistically significant correlation between age and limb length discrepancy was noted. Furthermore, there were no correlations between upper limb discrepancies and measures of active motion, type of lesion, and surgical procedure in individual patients.

Keywords