In a patient with complete C5-C6 brachial plexus palsy and intact spinal accessory nerve, the spinal accessory nerve is transferred to the suprascapular nerve. What functional outcome is this transfer designed to restore?
- A Shoulder abduction and external rotation ✓
- B Elbow flexion
- C Wrist and finger extension
- D Elbow extension
Correct answer: A. Shoulder abduction and external rotation
Explanation
The suprascapular nerve innervates supraspinatus and infraspinatus. Reinnervating it with the spinal accessory nerve restores shoulder abduction initiated by supraspinatus and external rotation powered by infraspinatus, stabilising the glenohumeral joint. Elbow flexion is restored by transfers to the musculocutaneous nerve, and wrist or finger extension requires other donors such as radial nerve branches or free muscle transfer.
Reference: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics, 14th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.