Integrated Electromyography: Discriminant Analysis and Prediction of Recovery 3 to 6 Years after Brachial Plexus Birth Injury

Purpose: To assess the recovery likelihood, 3 to 6 years after brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI), and predict the functional recovery from integrated electromyography (IEMG). Methods: Thirty children with BPBI limited to C5-C6 lesion participated. Maximal electromyography activity of deltoid and biceps brachii was measured at entry. Shoulder and elbow functions were assessed at the baseline and at 4 intervals across 2 years. Results: Shoulder and elbow function significantly changed across the follow-up period. Shoulder and elbow functions were significantly dependent on deltoid and biceps brachii muscles' IEMG level, respectively, with the groups showing higher IEMG achieving better recovery. The deltoid and biceps IEMG explained a portion of the improvement in shoulder and elbow function over 2 years. Conclusion: Recovery of the shoulder and elbow function continues 3 to 6 years after BPBI. IEMG may partially explain variation in the prognosis for children with BPBI.