Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress of C (5) palsy (C (5)P) after cervical surgery, providing new clinical intervention ideas for the C (5)P patients. METHODS: The relevant literature domestically and abroad was extensively consulted and the latest developments in the incidence, risk factors, manifestations and diagnosis, prevention, and intervention measures of C (5)P were systematically expounded. RESULTS: C (5)P is characterized by weakness in the C (5) nerve innervation area after cervical decompression surgery, manifested as limited shoulder abduction and elbow flexion, with an incidence rate more than 5%, often caused by segmental spinal cord injury or mechanical injury to the nerve roots. For patients with risk factors, careful operation and preventive measures can reduce the incidence of C (5)P. Most of the patients can recover with conservative treatment such as drug therapy and physical therapy, while those without significant improvement after 6 months of treatment may require surgical intervention such as foraminal decompression and nerve displacement. CONCLUSION: Currently, there has been some advancement in the etiology and intervention of C (5)P. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to assess the timing of intervention and surgical protocol.