Clinical assessment of the infant and child following perinatal brachial plexus injury

Study designLiterature review.IntroductionAfter perinatal brachial plexus injury (PBPI), clinicians play an important role in injury classification as well as the assessment of recovery and secondary conditions. Early assessment guides the initial plan of care and influences follow-up and long-term outcome.PurposeTo review methods used to assess, classify and monitor the extent and influence of PBPI with an emphasis on guidelines for clinicians.MethodsWe use The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model to provide a guide to assessment after PBPI for rehabilitation clinicians.DiscussionWith information gained from targeted assessments, clinicians can design interventions to increase the opportunities infants and children have for optimal recovery and to attain skills that allow participation in areas of interest.