Anterior Approach for Axillary Nerve Reconstruction

A deltoid and teres minor muscle palsy can occur after an isolated axillary nerve injury or a posterior cord or upper brachial plexus injury. Several considerations should be taken into account when planning an axillary nerve reconstruction. A surgical exploration at the site of injury should be performed. Nerve grafting is our first reconstructive option with nerve transfer as a secondary alternative. The history, surgical anatomy, and indication of the anterior axillary approach as well as the triceps nerve branch to the axillary nerve transfer will be reviewed.