Clinical diagnosis, testing, and electromyographic study in brachial plexus traction injuries.

A system for evaluation of patients with brachial plexus injury is based on careful observation, including the patient's history and a physical examination, a radiographic assessment, and electrodiagnosis. The clinical history and physical examination remain the cornerstone of this evaluation and their documentation is vital. Traction injuries, wherein there is a possibility of root avulsion, were examined myelographically and electromyographically at one month. Although they must be considered, the limitations of these methods of evaluation do not vitiate their usefulness. Modification of the evaluation procedures should be made according to the requirements imposed by specific causal agents and circumstances.