Answer to Question #147467 in Human Anatomy and Physiology for michelle

Question

The lateral cord of the right brachial plexus of a right handed 35 yr old male is completely severed.

Discuss the clinical presentation of the patient in terms of muscle function of the right upper extremity. Be specific about what muscles might be affected and to what extent. If you wish to add the sensory deficits expected as well, that is fine.

Answer 1

The lateral cord of the right brachial plexus is a network of interlinked nerves that control sensation and movement in the right arm and hand. Severe damage involves sudden injuries to these nerves. Consequently, leading to loss of feeling, weakness, or defeat of movement in the right muscles of the shoulder, arm, or hand. The severe injury occurs when the right arm is stretched or pulled by force. Therefore, minor injuries might heal minus treatment. But, severe injuries might need surgery to recover the proper function of the right hand and arm.