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OrthoVellum

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Hand & Upper Limb
intermediate
X-Type

Long Thoracic Nerve Injury

Nerve Injuries

A 28-year-old man presents with shoulder weakness after carrying heavy furniture on his shoulder 3 weeks ago. He notices difficulty reaching overhead and a prominence of his shoulder blade when pushing against a wall. Examination reveals medial scapular winging that worsens with forward flexion and wall push-up. There is no neck pain or sensory changes. Regarding long thoracic nerve injury:

Mark each as TRUE or FALSE

A

The long thoracic nerve (nerve of Bell) arises from C5, C6, and C7 nerve roots, passes through or be...

B

Causes of long thoracic nerve injury include: traction (carrying heavy loads on shoulder), direct tr...

C

The long thoracic nerve innervates the trapezius muscle; it arises from T1 and T2 roots; scapular wi...

D

Clinical examination shows medial scapular winging that is most prominent with forward flexion again...

E

Surgical options for persistent dysfunction (beyond 12-24 months) include pectoralis major transfer ...

Answer the questions to see explanations

Click T (True) or F (False) for each option