• ocurs with significant lateral traction during vaginal delivery of an infant
• results in damage to the upper part of the brachial plexus, especially the 5th and 6th cervical roots
• results in paralysis of hte shoulder and arm
• the affected arm is held in adduction and internal rotation
• most resolve spontaneoulsy, but some may require physical therapy after 2 weeks
• surgery is rarely required, and has poor results
• always palpate for ipsilateral clavicel fractures!

References

MedStudy Pediatrics Board Review

Core Curriculum