The Role of Early Functional Electrostimulation in Partial Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury Cats: A Pilot Study

Le résumé fourni par la source

This prospective cohort pilot study included 22 cats diagnosed with partial traumatic brachial plexus injury (PTBPI), aiming to explore the response of an early intensive neurorehabilitation protocol. This protocol included functional electrical stimulation (FES), locomotor treadmill training and kinesiotherapy exercises, starting at the time with highest probability of nerve repair. The synergetic benefits of this multimodal approach were based on the structural and protective role of proteins and release of neurotrophic factors. Furthermore, parametrization of FES was according to presence or absence of deep pain. Results have shown 72.6% (16/22) cats that achieved ambulation, with 9 cats within 15 days, 2 cats until 30 days and 5 cats until 60 days, however with persistent knuckling position. During the 4 years follow-up, there was evidence of improvement on both muscle mass and muscle weakness, in addition to the disappearance of neuropathic pain. Notably, after the 60 days of neurorehabilitation, 3 cats improved ambulation after arthrodesis of the carpus. Thus, early rehabilitation, with FES applied at the first weeks after injury and accurate parametrization according to deep pain perception, may improve functionality and ambulation, reducing probability of amputation of the affected limb.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.