Brachial Plexus Surgery
- Repair damaged nerves caused by trauma, accidents, or injury
- Restore strength, sensation, and function in the shoulder, arm, and hand
- Utilize advanced microsurgical techniques for precise nerve repair and reconstruction
- Receive personalized care from Dr. James Silverthorn, a board-certified neurosurgeon with 17+ years of experience
- Access a multidisciplinary team supporting your full recovery from surgery through rehabilitation
Restore Movement. Relieve Pain. Regain Independence.
- Repair damaged nerves caused by trauma, accidents, or injury
- Restore strength, sensation, and function in the shoulder, arm, and hand
- Utilize advanced microsurgical techniques for precise nerve repair and reconstruction
- Receive personalized care from Dr. James Silverthorn, a board-certified neurosurgeon with 17+ years of experience
- Access a multidisciplinary team supporting your full recovery from surgery through rehabilitation
- Repair damaged nerves caused by trauma, accidents, or injury
- Restore strength, sensation, and function in the shoulder, arm, and hand
- Utilize advanced microsurgical techniques for precise nerve repair and reconstruction
- Receive personalized care from Dr. James Silverthorn, a board-certified neurosurgeon with 17+ years of experience
- Access a multidisciplinary team supporting your full recovery from surgery through rehabilitation
Brachial Plexus Surgery in Sacramento, CA
Restore Function, Relieve Pain, and Regain Independence with Dr. Silverthorn
Severe brachial plexus injuries can disrupt nerve communication between your spinal cord and arm, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of sensation. For many patients, advanced surgical intervention offers the best opportunity to restore movement, improve quality of life, and return to everyday activities.
At our practice, we specialize in comprehensive evaluation and personalized surgical care for brachial plexus injuries. Our multidisciplinary network of rehabilitation and neurological specialists is committed to delivering safe, effective outcomes using state-of-the-art microsurgical techniques.
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Brachial Plexus Surgery
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What Is Brachial Plexus Surgery?
The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that originates in the neck and travels through the shoulder to supply the arm and hand with motor and sensory signals. Trauma, stretching, compression, or nerve tears can damage this nerve network, resulting in significant disability. Surgical intervention aims to repair, reconstruct, or transfer nerves to restore nerve impulse flow and improve function.
Unlike minor nerve injuries that may heal on their own, severe brachial plexus injuries often require surgery to reconnect or rebuild nerve pathways before irreversible muscle atrophy occurs.
Who Needs Brachial Plexus Surgery?
You may be a candidate for brachial plexus surgery if you have:
- Traumatic nerve injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents, falls, or penetrating trauma that cause torn or severed nerves
- Persistent pain, weakness, or numbness in the shoulder, arm, or hand that has not improved with conservative treatment
- Scar tissue or neuroma formation causing ongoing pain and functional impairment
- Nerve tumors affecting the brachial plexus that require surgical removal and reconstruction
- Delayed functional recovery in cases where nerve regeneration is unlikely without surgical intervention
The decision to proceed with surgery is individualized based on the type and severity of the injury, the patient’s health, and the time since the injury.
Types of Brachial Plexus Surgery
Nerve Repair
Nerve Grafting
Nerve Transfer
Neurolysis and Decompression
For injuries involving scar tissue compression, neurolysis (freeing the nerve from surrounding scar tissue) or decompression techniques can relieve pressure on the nerve, improving nerve health and reducing pain.
Why Choose Our Brachial Plexus Surgery Team?
Choosing the right surgical team is critical when treating complex brachial plexus injuries. At Total Spine Institute, your care is led by Dr. James Silverthorn, a board-certified neurosurgeon with more than 17 years of experience in advanced spine surgery and peripheral nerve repair. His depth of training, academic excellence, and leadership in neurosurgical care allow patients access to a level of expertise typically found only at major academic centers.
Advanced Microsurgical Expertise
Dr. Silverthorn has specialized training in peripheral nerve repair, including complex nerve injuries and tumors. Using high-precision microsurgical techniques, he performs meticulous nerve repairs, grafts, and transfers designed to restore function while protecting surrounding tissue. His background in neurotrauma and complex reconstruction allows him to manage even the most challenging brachial plexus cases with confidence and precision.
Multidisciplinary, Comprehensive Care
Brachial plexus injuries often require coordinated care across multiple specialties. Dr. Silverthorn works closely with neurologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure each patient receives a seamless, fully integrated treatment plan. This collaborative approach supports optimal nerve recovery, functional restoration, and long-term outcomes.
Highly Personalized Surgical Planning
No two brachial plexus injuries are the same. Dr. Silverthorn develops individualized surgical strategies based on the exact nerve injury pattern, timing of injury, overall health, and the patient’s functional goals. His experience with both acute trauma cases and delayed nerve reconstruction allows for thoughtful, customized decision-making at every stage of care.
Patient-Centered Guidance and Support
From your first consultation through recovery, our team prioritizes clear communication, education, and compassionate care. Dr. Silverthorn takes the time to explain your diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Patients are supported at every step of their surgical and rehabilitation journey.
Our Providers
Andrew Fox, M.D.
Neuro Spine Surgeon
Ryan Derby, M.D.
Interventional Pain Management
Ryan Mattie, M.D.
Interventional Pain Management
Cheri Geist, PA-C, MPAP, FAAPA
Physician Assistant
John Michael Holmes, DO, JD
Interventional Pain Management
James Silverthorn, D.O.
Neuro Spine Surgeon
David Pilkington, DO
Interventional Pain Management
Pouriya Ghayoumi, M.D.
Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
Vlad Gendelman, M.D.
Orthopedic Surgeon
What to Expect: Consultation and Preparation
Your care begins with a comprehensive evaluation led by Dr. Silverthorn to determine the most effective treatment approach for your brachial plexus injury. This detailed assessment may include:
- A thorough medical history and neurological examination to evaluate strength, sensation, and functional deficits
- Electrodiagnostic testing, such as EMG and nerve conduction studies, to assess nerve activity and injury severity
- Advanced imaging, including MRI or ultrasound, to visualize nerve anatomy and identify areas of damage or compression
Dr. Silverthorn carefully reviews all findings and discusses your diagnosis in detail. He will outline recommended surgical options, expected recovery timelines, and realistic outcome goals so you are fully informed and prepared prior to surgery.
The Surgical Experience
Brachial plexus surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a specialized surgical setting equipped for advanced microsurgery. During the procedure, Dr. Silverthorn uses high-powered surgical microscopes to carefully explore the affected nerves and surrounding structures.
Throughout surgery, nerve stimulation and intraoperative monitoring are used to identify functional nerve tissue and protect healthy structures. Depending on the nature of the injury, the procedure may involve direct nerve repair, nerve grafting, nerve transfers, or decompression techniques to relieve scar tissue and restore nerve signaling.
Once the surgical repair is complete, the incision is closed, and the arm is typically supported with a sling or splint to protect the repair during early healing.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after brachial plexus surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and commitment. Initial healing of the surgical site generally occurs over the first few weeks, but nerve regeneration and functional recovery continue over a much longer timeline.
Nerves regenerate slowly, often at a rate of approximately one millimeter per day. As a result, improvements in strength and sensation may develop over several months and can continue for one to two years following surgery.
A structured physical therapy program is essential and is tailored to the specific surgical procedure and functional goals.
Rehabilitation focuses on maintaining joint mobility, preventing muscle stiffness, and retraining muscles as nerve function returns. Dr. Silverthorn closely monitors progress through follow-up visits and adjusts rehabilitation strategies as needed to support optimal recovery.
Comprehensive Peripheral Nerve Surgery Beyond the Brachial Plexus
While brachial plexus repair is a highly specialized focus, it represents just one part of advanced peripheral nerve surgery. Dr. Silverthorn also treats a wide range of nerve injuries and compression conditions affecting both the arms and legs.
Additional services include:
- Nerve repair and reconstruction in the upper and lower extremities
- Microsurgical nerve grafting and nerve transfers
- Decompression surgery for compression neuropathies in the arms and legs
Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, peroneal nerve compression, and other nerve entrapments can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and functional decline. Surgical decompression can relieve pressure on the affected nerve and help restore comfort and mobility.
By offering comprehensive nerve repair and decompression procedures, we provide complete peripheral nerve care, not just brachial plexus surgery.
What our patients say
Restore Movement and Confidence with Brachial Plexus Surgery in Sacramento, CA
Living with a brachial plexus injury can significantly impact independence, comfort, and quality of life. With advanced surgical techniques and expert care from Dr. James Silverthorn, brachial plexus surgery offers a meaningful opportunity to restore movement, reduce pain, and regain function.
If you are struggling with arm weakness, loss of sensation, or chronic nerve pain following a brachial plexus injury, expert help is available. Schedule a consultation with Total Spine Institute today to learn how personalized brachial plexus surgery may help you move forward with confidence.
Brachial Plexus Surgery FAQs
When should brachial plexus surgery be performed?
Timing is critical. For traumatic stretch or blunt injuries, earlier surgery, often within three to six months, can provide the best chance for meaningful recovery, especially when spontaneous healing is unlikely.
How long does recovery take?
While initial healing is relatively quick, nerve regeneration and functional recovery can take months to years. Many patients begin to notice improvements within six to twelve months.
Is physical therapy necessary?
Yes. Rehabilitation is essential to maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and retrain motor function after nerve repair or transfers.
Schedule a Consultation
Brachial Plexus Surgery
By submitting this form, you consent to be contacted by Total Spine Institute via phone, text, email, or mail. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not a condition of purchase. You agree to the Terms of Service and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to opt out.