[Research progress of etiologies for C 5 palsy after cervical decompression].

OBJECTIVE

To review the definition and possible etiologies for C 5 palsy.

METHODS

The literature on C 5 palsy at home and abroad in recent years was extensively reviewed, and the possible etiologies were analyzed based on clinical practice experience.

RESULTS

There are two main theories (nerve root tether and spinal cord injury) accounting for the occurrence of C 5 palsy, but both have certain limitations. The former can not explain the occurrence of C 5 palsy after anterior cervical spine surgery, and the latter can not explain that the clinical symptoms of C 5 palsy is often the motor dysfunction of the upper limb muscles. Based on the previous reports, combining our clinical experience and research, we propose that the occurrence of C 5 palsy is mainly due to the instrumental injury of anterior horn of cervical spinal cord during anterior cervical decompression. In addition, the C 5 palsy following surgery via posterior approach may be related to the nerve root tether caused by the spinal cord drift after decompression.

CONCLUSION

In view of the main cause of C 5 palsy after cervical decompression, it is recommended to reduce the compression of the spinal cord by surgical instruments to reduce the risk of this complication.