Axillary nerve injury: Current concept review

Abstract

Background: The axillary nerve is the most commonly injured nerve in the shoulder and is particularly susceptible to injury due to its anatomical relation in the quadrangular space on the posterior scapula. Objective: This review aimed to provide an updated summary of various injuries to the axillary nerve and its management. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for articles published in the English language pertaining to axillary nerve anatomy, injury, and treatment. Articles published between 1960 and May 2022 were included. Results: The axillary nerve is often injured after shoulder dislocations or humeral fractures and can heal without surgical intervention. Operative treatments are indicated if the injury does not show signs of recovery. Conclusion: Injuries to the axillary nerve are commonly encountered and it is imperative for providers to know how to effectively treat patients with these conditions. After a thorough physical exam and determining the diagnosis of axillary nerve injury, patients should undergo physical therapy to restrengthen affected musculature and range of motion. If conservative methods are unsuccessful, surgical interventions such as neurolysis or nerve transfer could be indicated.

Keywords

• Axillary nerve
• Axillary nerve injury
• Glenohumeral joint
• Shoulder dislocation
• Brachial plexus