Potential Mechanism for Some Postoperative C5 Palsies: An Anatomical Study

Conclusion. Shoulder depression is often used during cervical spine surgery. In cadavers, shoulder depression causes significant tension and displacement of the C5 nerve rootlets, and in the extreme, cord displacement to the ipsilateral side. This could be a mechanism for injury, putting patients at greater risk for postoperative C5 palsy. Level of Evidence: 5
Source: Spine - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Anatomy Source Type: research