Guidance
3 Committee considerations
The evidence
3.1 To inform the committee, NICE did a rapid review of the published literature on the efficacy and safety of this procedure. This comprised a comprehensive literature search and detailed review of the evidence from 5 sources, which was discussed by the committee. The evidence included 1 systematic review and 3 case series and 1 case report, and is presented in table 2 of the interventional procedures overview. Other relevant literature is in the appendix of the overview.
3.2 The specialist advisers and the committee considered the key efficacy outcomes to be: restoring meaningful function and improving quality of life.
3.3 The specialist advisers and the committee considered the key safety outcomes to be: infection, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus.
3.4 Three commentaries from patients who had experience of this procedure were received, which were discussed by the committee.
Committee comments
3.5 This treatment can make a life-changing difference to patients with tetraplegia and could potentially enhance quality of life.
3.6 Specialists in brachial plexus injury may be able to help assess and manage this condition.
3.7 All patients need to have rehabilitation and regular follow‑up for a long time after having this procedure because recovery is prolonged.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-2894-1