Paediatric Nerve Injuries

Description

The presentation by Dr. Kate Brown provides an in-depth exploration of pediatric nerve injuries, emphasizing key differences between pediatric and adult cases. Dr. Brown outlines that most closed nerve injuries in children result from neurapraxia, where nerve conduction is temporarily halted, and highlights children's remarkable neuroplasticity, which allows for superior recovery of motor and sensory functions compared to adults. She notes the rarity of neuropathic pain in children, often linked to specific ischemic events, and discusses the developmental implications of untreated nerve injuries, particularly the potential for musculoskeletal imbalances.



The talk then categorizes nerve injuries into non-degenerative (neuroapraxic) and degenerative types, detailing their mechanisms and implications for treatment. The importance of understanding the injury's mechanism, whether open or closed, is stressed, along with the need for careful examination and diagnosis, as children may present challenges in reporting their symptoms.



Dr. Brown also discusses the significance of vascular status in assessing nerve injuries, especially in relation to supracondylar fractures in children, which can affect multiple nerves, highlighting the complexity of such injuries. Surgical management principles are described, including techniques for nerve repair and grafting, emphasizing the need for timely intervention to optimize recovery. The presentation concludes with a summary of expected recovery outcomes, the importance of addressing associated vascular injuries, and the need for continued monitoring and therapy in managing these complex cases.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230432

Specialties