INTRODUCTION: In this study we used a rat model to elucidate the linear make-up of each major nerve of the upper limb by the C7 root through sensory stimulation and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). METHODS: The C7 nerve root and major nerves of the right forelimb were stimulated electrically. Blood oxygen level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD fMRI) was performed concurrently. Voxel overlap within the primary sensory cortex was calculated. RESULTS: C7 comprised sensation in <1% in the musculocutaneous nerve, 6% in the ulnar nerve, 16% in the radial nerve, and 19% in the median nerve (P<0.005 for each). The overlap was always <25% for each major nerve. CONCLUSIONS: This study helps explain why C7 is a suitable donor for brachial plexus injury treatment and why there is only a transient sensory deficit after transfer.
INTRODUCTION: In this study we used a rat model to elucidate the linear make-up of each major nerve of the upper limb by the C7 root through sensory stimulation and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). METHODS: The C7 nerve root and major nerves of the right forelimb were stimulated electrically. Blood oxygen level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD fMRI) was performed concurrently. Voxel overlap within the primary sensory cortex was calculated. RESULTS: C7 comprised sensation in <1% in the musculocutaneous nerve, 6% in the ulnar nerve, 16% in the radial nerve, and 19% in the median nerve (P<0.005 for each). The overlap was always <25% for each major nerve. CONCLUSIONS: This study helps explain why C7 is a suitable donor for brachial plexus injury treatment and why there is only a transient sensory deficit after transfer.
Authors: Patrick C Hettinger; Rupeng Li; Ji-Geng Yan; Hani S Matloub; Younghoon R Cho; Christopher P Pawela; Daniel B Rowe; James S Hyde Journal: J Neurosci Methods Date: 2011-06-24 Impact factor: 2.390
Authors: Agnes F Hoeksma; Anne Marie ter Steeg; Rob G H H Nelissen; Willem J R van Ouwerkerk; Gustaaf J Lankhorst; Bareld A de Jong Journal: Dev Med Child Neurol Date: 2004-02 Impact factor: 5.449