Long Thoracic Nerve Palsy: When Is Decompression Indicated
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Authors
Wu, Feiran
Ng, Chye Yew
Issue Date
2023-01
Keyword
Type
Article
Citation
J Hand Surg Glob Online . 2023 Jan 27;5(4):519-524
PubMed ID
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Abstract
Scapular winging due to long thoracic nerve palsy can occur through traumatic injuries and nontraumatic events. The traditional view is that most patients will achieve spontaneous recovery within 2 years of winging onset. However, there is evidence that points to a less clear-cut natural history, with residual winging, muscle weakness, and fatigability being exhibited in a significant percentage of patients. Reports from proponents of a more proactive approach have shown that the surgical decompression of the long thoracic nerve beyond 12 months, through thoracic, supraclavicular, or combined approaches, can yield satisfactory results. This review examines our current understanding of long thoracic nerve palsy and explores the varying treatment strategies with their reported outcomes.