Brachial Plexus Injuries

Muscle Transfer

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When an injury causes irreversible atrophy (weakening) of the arm muscles, a new muscle can be transplanted to restore function. The surgical team will move an expendable muscle (such as the gracilis muscle from the thigh) along with its nerve and blood supply, to "reanimate" (restore movement to) the elbow, wrist and hand. Muscle transfers can often stabilize the shoulder and allow lifting of the shoulder, flexing of the elbow and, in some cases, restored function and sensation in the hand. Mayo Clinic has extensive experience with this technique.