The Hua-Shan rehabilitation program after contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer for spastic arm paralysis. Issue 3 (30th January 2022) - Li, Jie
Abstract: Purpose: To propose the novel Hua-Shan rehabilitation program for patients undergoing the contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer, and explore the influence of different rehabilitation on the postoperative recovery. Materials and methods: The Hua-Shan program was established in consideration of the three elements: the nerve regeneration, brain plasticity and group therapy. Its effect was evaluated by comparing the postoperative recovery of the hemorrhagic stroke survivors among the following three groups: Group A-standard Hua-Shan program after surgery; Group B-standard traditional program after surgery; Group C-no standard rehabilitation after surgery. Results: Significantly better functions after surgery were detected in all the groups, while the absence of standard rehabilitation massively offset the benefits of the surgery. Furthermore, the Hua-Shan program showed advantage over the traditional rehabilitation, which may largely be attributed to its improvements for the fine action of wrist&finger. Conclusions: The Hua-Shan program provided the opportunity to maximize the benefits of contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Standard rehabilitation plays key roles in the recovery process for patients undergoing contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer. The Hua-Shan program targeting nerve regeneration, brain plasticity and group therapy further improved the benefits of patients undergoing contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer.