Background: Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) syndrome consists of loss of lower motor neurons following a viral infection, with preserved sensory function. It usually affects the upper limbs asymmetrically, with proximal more than distal muscle involvement.
Methods: Five cases were surgically treated with nerve transfers: spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer (4 patients), branch of radial nerve to axillary nerve transfer (Somsak's procedure) (2 patients), and transfer of a fascicle of the ulnar nerve to the motor branch to the biceps (Oberlin's procedure) (1 patient).
Results: Motor improvement was seen in three cases. Widespread motor involvement was associated with poor outcome.
Conclusion: This small series of cases reinforces that nerve transfers are a reliable option for treatment of selected children with AFM.
Keywords: Acute flaccid myelitis; Nerve transfers; Neurotization; Poliomyelitis.