Pune: A 31-year-old Pune resident, Swaraj, recently underwent surgery for a brachial plexus injury sustained in a two-wheeler accident. The accident left him unable to move his right shoulder and elbow, prompting immediate surgical intervention. Post-surgery, months of physiotherapy helped him regain mobility.
This case highlights a troubling rise in brachial plexus injuries in Pune, with hand orthopedic specialists attributing 70% of such injuries to road accidents involving two-wheelers. According to data, 46% of accident victims suffer severe damage to this vital network of nerves, which controls movement and sensation in the arm.
Understanding Brachial Plexus Injuries
The brachial plexus is a network of five nerves connecting the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries occur when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or severed due to trauma. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery, but experts note that public awareness of these injuries remains low, often delaying medical attention.
Precautions for Riders
Orthopedic experts emphasize the importance of safety measures:
Maintain moderate speeds while riding.
Replace worn tires promptly and wear helmets.
Do not ignore injuries to the arms or shoulders after an accident.
Consult specialists for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
"If trauma to the shoulder or neck causes loss of movement in the arm, immediate medical intervention is crucial. Public awareness about brachial plexus injuries remains low, resulting in delayed treatment," said Dr. Abhijit Wahegaonkar, a hand orthopedic specialist at Sancheti Hospital.
Dr. Parag Sancheti, Chief Orthopedic Surgeon at Sancheti Hospital, reported that the hospital treats 100 to 120 brachial plexus injury cases annually, predominantly involving two-wheeler riders aged 20 to 50 years. Of these, 80% are men, with most cases originating from Pune and neighboring districts. Data reveals that injuries are more common on the right side, with 50% of patients suffering damage to all five primary nerves.