Prevention and Treatment of Nerve Injuries in Shoulder Arthroplasty

➤ Nerve injuries during shoulder arthroplasty have traditionally been considered rare events, but recent electrodiagnostic studies have shown that intraoperative nerve trauma is relatively common. ➤ The brachial plexus and axillary and suprascapular nerves are the most commonly injured neurologic structures, with the radial and musculocutaneous nerves being less common sites of injury. ➤ Specific measures taken during the surgical approach, component implantation, and revision surgery may help to prevent direct nerve injury. Intraoperative positioning maneuvers and arm lengthening warrant consideration to minimize indirect injuries. ➤ Suspected nerve injuries should be investigated with electromyography preferably at 6 weeks and no later than 3 months postoperatively, allowing for primary reconstruction within 3 to 6 months of injury when indicated. Primary reconstructive options include neurolysis, direct nerve repair, nerve grafting, and nerve transfers. ➤ Secondary reconstruction is preferred for injuries presenting >12 months after surgery. Secondary reconstructive options with favorable outcomes include tendon transfers and free functioning muscle transfers.