Research Program Aims to Prevent, Early Diagnose and Treat Neonatal Brachial Plexus Injuries

A new graduate and undergraduate study program at Widener University aims to help doctors understand neonatal brachial plexus injuries that may occur during the birthing process. Dr. Anita Sing, an Adjunct Associate Professor in the school’s bioengineering department, is leading the research, which is geared toward helping diagnose and treat the injury.

Biracial plexus injuries occur when there is pulling and overstretching of the brachial plexus nerves, which run down the neck and control the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers. This injury may happen during delivery if there is difficulty manipulating the baby’s shoulder through the mother’s pelvis. Brachial plexus injuries may cause permanent damage, such as paralysis, numbness or weakness of the arm or shoulder, and may be caused by medical negligence.

The Widener student researchers are seeking to develop strategies for preventing neonatal brachial plexus injuries as well as early diagnosis and treatment plans for the injury. “At the moment we are trying to create computational tools that can be used by clinicians to really replicate a simulation of a baby inside the mom’s pelvis and base positions,” Dr. Singh said. The tool is designed to mimic the circumstances that cause the injury.

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