Harvester’s palsy – bilateral common peroneal nerve palsy: A descriptive case report

Peroneal neuropathy is the common mononeuropathy of the lower extremities in adults. The documented etiologies for peroneal nerve injury include trauma, traction, and external compression. Fibular neck is the most common site of common peroneal nerve (CPN) injury as the nerve lies superficial and vulnerable for injury. A 50-year-old male presented with foot drop in his left leg after working in squatting position for prolonged hours along with sensory disturbance in dorsum of left foot. Clinical examination showed poor dorsiflexion in both side ankle with preserved plantar flexion. Electrophysiological findings locate the site of lesion to be CPN at the level of fibular neck. We conclude that CPN is injured due to knee flexion in farmers repeatedly squatting for long hours. Superficial peroneal nerve may be spared due to their interfascicular arrangement at the level of fibular neck placing deep peroneal nerve near the fibula making them more susceptible to compression type of injury. Peroneal nerve may be damaged at multiple sites including ankle. The condition can be reversed with conservative treatment, primarily by avoiding the precipitating position.

Neuropathic pain in peroneal nerve entrapment at the fibular head / Dor neuropática no aprisionamento do nervo fibular na cabeça da fíbula

Abstract Background Peroneal neuropathy at the fibular head (PNFH) is a mononeuropathy that typically presents with drop foot and sensory abnormalities over the skin area innervated by the peroneal nerve. Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate neuropathic pain in patients with PNFH. Methods Patients with clinical and electrodiagnostic features consistent with PNFH associated with weight loss, leg postures, or prolonged sleep were included in the present retrospective cohort study. Nerve conduction studies were performed in the bilateral lower extremities of all patients. The Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs scale (LANSS) was applied to all patients. Results Thirty-two PNFH patients (78% males) were included in the study. The LANSS score in the majority of patients was lower than 12. There was 1 patient with a LANSS score of 12. The electrodiagnostic features of 16 patients were compatible with axonal degeneration. The mean LANSS scores of PNFH patients with and without axonal degeneration were 4.3 ± 3.7 and 5.2 ± 2.9, respectively (p = 0.255). Conclusion The present study showed that neuropathic pain is a rare symptom in patients with PNFH associated with weight loss, leg postures, or prolonged sleep.

Resumo Antecedentes A neuropatia fibular na cabeça da fíbula (PNFH) é uma mononeuropatia que normalmente se apresenta com pé caído e anormalidades sensoriais sobre a área da pele inervada pelo nervo fibular. Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a dor neuropática em pacientes com PNFH. Métodos Pacientes com características clínicas e eletrodiagnósticas consistentes com PNFH associada a perda de peso, postura das pernas ou sono prolongado foram incluídos neste estudo de coorte retrospectivo. Estudos de condução nervosa foram realizados nas extremidades inferiores bilaterais de todos os pacientes. A escala de avaliação de sintomas e sinais neuropáticos de Leeds (LANSS) foi aplicada a todos os pacientes. Resultados Trinta e dois pacientes com PNFH (78%) foram incluídos no estudo. A pontuação LANSS em outros pacientes foi menor que 12. Houve 1 paciente com pontuação LANSS de 12. As características eletrodiagnósticas de 16 pacientes foram compatíveis com degeneração axonal. Os escores médios do LANSS de pacientes com PNFH com e sem degeneração axonal foram 4,3 ± 3,7 e 5,2 ± 2,9, respectivamente (p = 0,255). Conclusão O presente estudo mostrou que a dor neuropática é um sintoma raro em pacientes com PNFH associada à perda de peso, postura das pernas ou sono prolongado.

Transferencia tendinosa del tibial posterior en pie caído por lesión del nervio peroneo común / Tendon transfer of the posterior tibial in fallen foot due to lesion of the common peroneal nerve i:en

Se describe el caso clínico de un paciente de 34 años de edad, con antecedente de salud, atendido en la consulta intermunicipal de II Frente, provincia de Santiago de Cuba, por presentar, desde hacía 8 meses, una lesión en el nervio peroneo común, en la cara lateral del tercio superior de la pierna derecha, a causa de una mordida de cerdo, la cual no fue diagnosticada inicialmente, sino que se trató como una herida sin lesión neurológica. Se realizó proceder quirúrgico, consistente en una transposición tendinosa del músculo tibial posterior. Se inmovilizó el pie con una férula de yeso por 15 días, se le retiró la sutura a las 6 semanas y se indicó rehabilitación. A las 12 semanas comenzó a caminar sin dificultad y logró reincorporarse a sus actividades cotidianas.

The case report of a 34 years patient with health history is described. He was assisted in the intermunicipal visit of II Frente, province of Santiago de Cuba, due to a lesion in the common peroneal nerve during 8 months, in the lateral face of the superior third of the right leg, because of a pig bite, which was not diagnosed initially, but instead it was treated as a wound without neurological lesion. A surgical procedure was carried out, with a tendon transposition of the posterior tibial muscle. The foot was immobilized with a plaster splint for 15 days, the suture was removed 6 weeks later and rehabilitation was indicated. Twelve weeks later he began to walk without difficulty and he was able to return to his daily activities.

Study on electrophysiological changes of peripheral nerves in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background: Peripheral neuropathy is a common and disabling complication due to diabetes mellitus. In such neuropathy, the function of sensory neurons, motor neurons, and autonomic functions are affected. The involvement of sensory function predominates in majority of cases. The neuropathy when develops is not reversible and also can not be stopped with any modality of treatment. Aim and Objectives: The objective is to evaluate diabetic neuropathy using the electrodiagnostic studies which are considered as a valuable tool. These studies are sensitive, specific, reproducible, and easily standardized. Material and Methods: Forty patients were subjected to electrodiagnostic study to evaluate the status of peripheral nerves in type- 2 diabetic patients. The different conduction velocities (motor nerve conduction velocity [MNCV], sensory nerve conduction velocity [SNCV]), distal latency (DL), nerve action potential (sensory nerve action potential [SNAP], and combined muscle action potential [CMAP]) are studied. All the cases were divided into two groups based on normal and abnormal diabetic neuropathy score. Sex, body mass index matched thirty numbers of healthy adults of both sexes were included in the control group. Nerve conduction study (NCS) of all the three groups were compared. Result: Neuropathy mostly peripheral was observed in 15 (37.5%) cases. The age of majority of cases was from 50–60 (45%) with mean age of 52.42 ± 7.39, having predominance of male (66.67%) in cases with symptoms of neuropathy. Fourteen (93.33%) cases out of the above cases had abnormal NCS. Abnormal NCS was also found in cases without clinical neuropathy, i.e. 14 (56%). The mean values of CMAP, SNAP, MNCV, and SNCV with prolonged DL are observed which was statistically significant. The conduction defect was observed more in lower limbs than in upper limbs. In the category of the motor nerve (common peroneal) is the most affected whereas the most affected sensory nerve was Sural nerve. Conclusion: Affection of nerves with neuropathies due to diabetes was in Sensory nerve than motor nerve. Early screening for neuropathy in clinical practice with NCSs can help in early diagnosis and their management.

Repair of soft tissue defect of mid-and forefoot with anterolateral wide pedicled double dynamic flap of calf / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the effects of anterolateral wide pedicled double dynamic flap of the calf in repair of soft tissue defects of mid-and forefoot.Methods:From September 2015 to Septemler 2020, 15 cases with severe soft tissue defects of mid-and forefoot were repaired with the anterolateral wide pedicled double dynamic flap of the calf. There were 11 males and 4 females with an average age of 37(range, 22-53)years old. Of the 15 cases, the defects were caused by traffic accident in 6 cases and objects smash in 9 cases. Three cases were simple soft tissue defect, and 12 cases combined with fracture or dislocation and bone defect. The size of soft tissue defects ranged from 4 cm×5 cm to 7 cm×12 cm. All wounds of donor sites were repaired by skin grafting. All patients entered follow-ups at the outpatient clinic or through WeChat. The appearance of flaps and limb recovery were recorded after surgery.Results:All cases followed-up for 6-24 (mean, 16) months. Two days after surgery, 1 case had flap swelling and cyanosis, which was improved after pedicle suture removal and surface bloodletting. The pedicle of the flap was slightly bloated in 4 cases, and the texture and appearance were good in 11 cases. The ankle function of all cases recovered satisfactorily. The ranges of ankle motion were 15°-20° for dorsiflexion and 30°-40° for plantar flexion. The donor site healed well and all the skin grafts survived.Conclusion:The anterolateral wide pedicled double dynamic flap of the calf is one of the ideal flaps for repairing the soft tissue defects of the mid-and forefoot with reliable blood supply, sufficient venous return, simple operation and no require a vascular anastomosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of common peroneal nerve injury in acute and subacute posterolateral corner lesion: a retrospective study / Estudo retrospectivo das alterações do nervo fibular comum identificadas por ressonância magnética nas lesões agudas e subagudas do canto posterolateral do joelho

Abstract Objective: To evaluate qualitative and quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) criteria for injury of the common peroneal nerve (CPN) in patients with acute or subacute injuries in the posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee, as well as to evaluate the reproducibility of MRI evaluation of CPN alterations. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of 38 consecutive patients submitted to MRI and diagnosed with acute or subacute injury to the PLC of the knee (patient group) and 38 patients with normal MRI results (control group). Two musculoskeletal radiologists (designated radiologist A and radiologist B, respectively) evaluated the images. Nerve injury was classified as neurapraxia, axonotmesis, or neurotmesis. Signal strength was measured at the CPN, the tibial nerve (TN), and a superficial vein (SV). The CPN/TN and CPN/SV signal ratios were calculated. The status of each PLC structure, including the popliteal tendon, arcuate ligament, lateral collateral ligament, and biceps tendon, was classified as normal, partially torn, or completely torn, as was that of the cruciate ligaments. For the semiquantitative analysis of interobserver agreement, the kappa statistic was calculated, whereas a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used for the quantitative analysis. Results: In the patient group, radiologist A found CPN abnormalities in 15 cases (39.4%)-neurapraxia in eight and axonotmesis in seven-whereas radiologist B found CPN abnormalities in 14 (36.8%)-neurapraxia in nine and axonotmesis in five. The kappa statistic showed excellent interobserver agreement. In the control group, the CPN/TN signal ratio ranged from 0.63 to 1.1 and the CPN/SV signal ratio ranged from 0.16 to 0.41, compared with 1.30-4.02 and 0.27-1.08, respectively, in the patient group. The ROC curve analysis demonstrated that the CPN/TN signal ratio at a cutoff value of 1.39 had high (93.3%) specificity for the identification of nerve damage, compared with 81.3% for the CPN/SV signal ratio at a cutoff value of 0.41. Conclusion: CPN alterations are common in patients with PLC injury detected on MRI, and the level of interobserver agreement for such alterations was excellent. Calculating the CPN/TN and CPN/SV signal ratios may increase diagnostic confidence. We recommend systematic analysis of the CPN in cases of PLC injury.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar critérios de identificação de lesão no nervo fibular comum (NFC) por ressonância magnética (RM) em pacientes com lesão aguda e subaguda no canto posterolateral (CPL) e avaliar a reprodutibilidade na identificação de alterações do NFC. Materiais e Métodos: Foram incluídos, retrospectivamente, 38 pacientes consecutivos submetidos a RM e com diagnóstico de lesão aguda ou subaguda no CPL do joelho, constituindo o grupo de pacientes. Outros 38 pacientes com RM normal foram utilizados como grupo controle. Dois radiologistas musculoesqueléticos (A e B) analisaram as imagens. A lesão neural foi classificada em neuropraxia, axoniotmese ou neurotmese. Foi medida a intensidade do sinal no NFC, no nervo tibial (NT) e em uma veia superficial (VS), e calculadas as razões de sinal NFC/NT e NFC/VS. Estruturas do CPL, incluindo tendão poplíteo, ligamento arqueado, ligamento colateral lateral e tendão do bíceps, foram classificadas como normal, rotura parcial ou rotura completa. Os ligamentos cruzados também foram avaliados segundo os mesmos critérios. O teste kappa foi utilizado para avaliar a concordância interobservador para as classificações semiquantitativas. Curva ROC foi utilizada para análise quantitativa. Resultados: O radiologista A encontrou alterações no NFC em 15 casos (39,4%): 8 neuropraxias, 7 axoniotmeses e nenhuma neurotmese. O radiologista B encontrou alterações no NFC em 14 casos (36,8%): 9 neuropraxias, 5 axoniotmeses e nenhuma neurotmese. O teste kappa mostrou alta concordância interobservador. No grupo controle, a razão NFC/NT variou entre 0,63-1,1 e a razão NFC/VS variou entre 0,16-0,41. Para o grupo de pacientes, a razão NFC/NT variou entre 1,30-4,02 e a razão NFC/VS variou entre 0,27-1,08. A análise com curva ROC demonstrou alta especificidade (93,3%) com relação à razão NFC/NT, usando um valor de corte de 1,39. Houve boa especificidade (81,3%) para a razão NFC/VS usando um valor de corte de 0,41. Conclusão: As alterações do NFC são detectadas com frequência nas lesões do CPL nas imagens de RM, com concordância interobservadores quase perfeita. Usando as razões de intensidade de sinal entre o NFC e o NT e entre o NFC e a VS, aumenta a confiança no diagnóstico. Recomendamos a análise sistemática do NFC nos casos de lesão do CPL.

Modified posterior tibialis muscle transfer for treatment of foot drop and varus deformity after common peroneal nerve injury / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To investigate the early effect of modified posterior tibialis muscle transfer in treating foot drop and varus deformity caused by common peroneal nerve injury.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 6 patients with foot drop of common peroneal nerve palsy and varus deformity admitted to Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from December 2017 to October 2019, including 4 males and 2 females, aged 33-48 years [(39.5±6.0)years]. The left side was involved in 4 patients and the right side in 2 patients. All patients underwent posterior tibial muscle transfer. The insertion of posterior tibial muscle was reconstructed in the fourth metatarsal with the tendon allograft to correct foot drop and varus deformity. The range of motion of active ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion and range of motion of varus and valgus of foot were measured before operation and at the last follow-up. The isokinetic torque peak value of ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion at 60°/s angular velocity and peak isokinetic torque of foot varus and valgus at 60°/s angular velocity were measured before operation and at the last follow-up. The postoperative foot imaging evaluation was performed at the last follow-up, including Meary angle, calcaneal projection and diameter of the fourth metatarsal. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Association (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score was used to evaluate the ankle function.Results:All patients were followed up for 6-17 months [10(6, 15)months]. At the last follow-up, the range of motion of dorsiflexion of the ankle [6(0, 10)°] and foot valgus [3(0, 5)°] were significantly improved compared with the preoperative level [-31(-33, -28)°, -10(-12, -8)°] ( P<0.05); the ankle dorsiflexion torque [(7.7±0.8)Nm] and foot valgus torque [(7.2±0.7)Nm] were significantly improved compared with the preoperative level [(0.0±0.0)Nm, (2.1±0.6)Nm]at 60°/s angular velocity ( P<0.01). Imaging examination showed no acquired flat foot deformity and deformation of the fourth metatarsal insertion. The AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score increased from 50-73 points [(61.3±8.4)points] before operation to 75-97 points [(86.8±7.2)points] at the last follow-up ( P<0.01). Conclusion:For foot drop and varus caused by common peroneal nerve injury, modified posterior tibialis muscle transfer can increase the torque of ankle dorsiflexion and valgus, improve the ankle range of motion, and accelerate the ankle function recovery.

Unilateral higher division of sciatic nerve and its clinical importance

The sciatic nerve has a long course right from the pelvis to the apex of the popliteal fossa. The point of division of the sciatic nerve into tibial and common peroneal nerves is very variable. The variation in the division of the sciatic nerve described in the present study should be helpful for anaesthetists and orthopaedic surgeons. While doing the dissection and teaching of the gluteal region in the Post Graduate Department of Anatomy, government medical college, Jammu, it was found that on the left side tibial nerve and common peroneal nerve were present instead of sciatic nerve. It meant that the main nerve that is the sciatic nerve had already been divided into its terminal branches in the pelvis region. Both tibial and common peroneal nerve were seen coming out of the pelvis below the piriformis muscle, while on the right side there were no variation. The sciatic nerve was seen coming out of the pelvis below the piriformis muscle as usual. Because of this high division of the sciatic nerve in the pelvis, there are many complications like failed sciatic nerve block during anaesthesia while performing surgery, but high division of the sciatic nerve may result in escape of either tibial nerve or common peroneal nerve. The gluteal region, back of the thigh and leg of the lower limb were dissected to study further course of tibial nerve and the common peroneal nerve. Photographs were also taken.

Effectiveness of tibialis posterior tendon transfer for foot drop secondary to peroneal nerve palsy / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of tibialis posterior tendon transfer for foot drop secondary to peroneal nerve palsy. Methods: The clinical data of 21 patients with unilateral foot drop secondary to peroneal nerve palsy between October 2009 and September 2016 was retrospectively analyzed. There were 12 males and 9 females with an average age of 32.1 years (range, 23-47 years). The causes of peroneal nerve injury were iatrogenic injury in 7 cases, tibiofibular fractures combined with compartment syndrome in 5 cases, nerve exploration surgery after stab or cut injury in 3 cases, direct violence in 4 cases, and the fibular head fracture in 2 cases. The average time from injury to operation was 5.6 years (range, 2-8 years). There was 1 case of hallux valgus and 5 cases of toe flexion contracture. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle and hindfoot scores, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores, range of motion (ROM), and dorsiflexion strength of ankle joint were used to evaluated the ankle function. Radiographic evaluation for the changes of postoperative foot alignment included Meary angle, calcaneal pitch angle, and hindfoot alignment angle. Results: All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 18-42 months (mean, 30.2 months). The dorsiflexion strength of ankle joint recovered from grade 0 to grade 3-4 after operation. There was no patient with a postoperative flat foot deformity and claw toe during follow-up. There was no significant difference in Meary angle, calcaneal pitch angle, and hindfoot alignment angle between pre- and post-operation ( P>0.05). The AOFAS score, FAAM score, and ROM of dorsiflexion significantly improved at last follow-up when compared with preoperative values ( P<0.05); while there was no significant difference in ROM of plantar-flexion between pre- and post-operation ( t=4.239, P=0.158). There were significant differences in AOFAS score, FAAM score, and ROM of dorsiflexion between affected and healthy sides ( P<0.05); but no significant difference in ROM of plantar-flexion was found ( t=2.319, P=0.538). Conclusion: Tibialis posterior tendon transfer is an effective surgical option for foot drop secondary to peroneal nerve palsy. And no postoperative flat foot deformity occurred at short-term follow-up.

Eficácia da estimulação elétrica com corrente russa após neurorrafia término-lateral do nervo fibular comum: análise eletroneuromiográfica e de força muscular / Eficacia de la estimulación eléctrica con la corriente rusa tras la neurorrafia término-lateral del nervio fibular común: análisis electroneuromiográfico y de fuerza muscular muscular / Efficacy of electrical Russian current stimulation after end-to-side neurorrhaphy of the common fibular nerve: electroneuromyography and muscle strength analysis

RESUMO Lesões de nervos periféricos levam a perda funcional elevada no tecido muscular. Assim, muitas pesquisas têm investigado técnicas cirúrgicas, como neurorrafias, e recursos terapêuticos, como eletroestimulação, para melhorar a funcionalidade de um músculo reinervado após lesão periférica. Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar os efeitos da eletroestimulação com corrente russa (2.500Hz, 4ms, 10 seg. de contração por 20 seg. de relaxamento, modulação de 10Hz e 100 Hz) na recuperação funcional após secção e neurorrafia término-lateral do coto distal do nervo fibular comum à face lateral do nervo tibial em ratos. Foram utilizados 25 ratos Wistar, machos, com 80 dias de vida, fornecidos pelo Biotério Central da Universidade Sagrado Coração (Bauru, SP, Brasil). Os animais foram divididos aleatoriamente em cinco grupos: grupo-controle Inicial (GCI), grupo-controle final (GCF), grupo experimental não tratado (GENT), grupo neurorrafia término-lateral com estimulação russa (GNTLER) e grupo-controle desnervado (GCD). A corrente russa foi iniciada cinco dias após neurorrafia e aplicada no músculo tibial cranial do GNTLER, 3 vezes por semana, totalizando 36 sessões. A estimulação elétrica foi eficaz para aumentar a amplitude e diminuir a latência do músculo reinervado, além de aumentar a força muscular em comparação ao GCD. Diante disso, conclui-se que a eletroestimulação de média frequência (corrente russa) foi eficiente na recuperação funcional do músculo tibial cranial após neurorrafia término-lateral do nervo fibular comum.

RESUMEN Las lesiones de los nervios periféricos ocasionan una elevada pérdida funcional en el tejido muscular. De esta manera, en muchos estudios se han investigado técnicas quirúrgicas, como neurorrafias, y recursos terapéuticos, como la electroestimulación, para mejorar la funcionalidad del músculo reinervado tras una lesión periférica. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo investigar los efectos de la electroestimulación con corrente rusa (2.500Hz, 4ms, 10 seg. de contracción por 20 seg. de relajación, modulación de 10Hz y 100Hz) en la recuperación funcional tras la sección y neurorrafia término-lateral del muñón distal del nervio fibular común en la parte lateral del nervio tibial en ratas. Se utilizaron 25 ratas Wistar, machos, con 80 días de vida, proporcionadas por el Biotério Central de la Universidade do Sagrado Coração (Bauru, SP, Brasil). Se dividieron aleatoriamente los animales en cinco grupos: grupo de control inicial (GCI), grupo de control final (GCF), grupo experimental no tratado (GENT), grupo de neurorrafia término-lateral con estimulación rusa (GNTLER) y grupo de control denervado (GCD). La corriente rusa se inició cinco días tras la neurorrafia, siendo que la aplicó al músculo tibial craneal del GNTLER 3 veces a la semana, con un total de 36 sesiones. La estimulación eléctrica se mostró efectiva para aumentar la amplitud y disminuir la latencia del músculo reinervado, además de aumentar la fuerza muscular en comparación con el GCD. Por lo tanto, se concluye que la estimulación eléctrica de frecuencia media (corriente rusa) fue eficaz en la recuperación funcional del músculo tibial craneal tras la neurorrafia término-lateral del nervio fibular común.

ABSTRACT Peripheral nerve injury leads to a high functional loss of muscle tissue. Thus, many studies have investigated surgical techniques, such as neurorraphies, and therapeutic resources, such as electrical stimulation, to improve the functionality of reinnervated muscle after peripheral injury. This study aims to investigate the effects of electrical stimulation with Russian Current (2,500Hz, 4ms, 10:20 sec contraction/relaxation, modulated at 10Hz and 100Hz) in the functional recovery after section and end-to-side neurorrhaphy of the peroneal nerve distal stump common to the lateral face of the tibial nerve in rats. In this study, 25 male Wistar rats with 80 days of life were used, provided by the Universidade Sagrado Coração (USC), Bauru, SP, Brazil. The animals were randomly divided into five groups: Initial Control Group (ICG), Final Control Group (FCG), Untreated Experimental Group (UEG), End-to-Side Neurorrhaphy with Russian Stimulation Group (ENRSG), and Denervated Control Group (DCG). The Russian Current was started 5 days after neurorrhaphy and applied to the cranial tibial muscle of the ENRSG, 3 times a week, totaling 36 sessions. We observed that the electrical stimulation with Russian Current (ENRSG) was effective to increase amplitude (mV) and to decrease the latency (ms) of the reinnervated muscle, besides increasing the muscle strength when compared with the denervated control group. Therefore, we concluded that the average frequency electrical stimulation (Russian current) was efficient in the functional recovery of the cranial tibial muscle after the end-lateral neurorrhaphy of the common fibular nerve.

A Cadaveric Study On Division Of Sciatic Nerve To Acheive Its Complete Nerve Blockage

Background: The sciatic nerve arises within the pelvis from the sacral plexus, enters into the gluteal regionthrough the greater sciatic notch and divides into two terminal branches at variable level in the posteriorcompartment of thigh. The variable level of division of sciatic nerve in the thigh leads to failure of sciatic nerveblockage. Considering this clinical problem, the present study has been undertaken with the object to measurethe distance of division of sciatic nerve from the popliteal crease.Materials and Methods: 32 embalmed formalin fixed cadavers were dissected in the gluteal region, back of thighand popliteal fossa and the sciatic nerve were exposed and the distance of division of sciatic nerve weremeasured from the popliteal crease.Results: Out of 32 cadavers dissected the sciatic nerve divides at a distance range of 5 cm–20 cm in malecadavers and 4 cm–11 cm in female cadavers. In 2 cadavers the sciatic nerve divides within the pelvis itself.Conclusion: So, to achieve complete blockage of sciatic nerve in most of the patients the needle should be insertedabout 14 cm (mean distance) above the popliteal crease in males and 8 cm (mean distance) above the poplitealcrease in females

Variations in Division of Sciatic Nerve and its Clinical Relevance: A Cadaveric Study

Introduction:The sciatic nerve emerges through the greater sciatic foramen, leaves pelvis and enters into gluteal region by passing below piriformis as a single nerve encompassed by a single epineural sheath. It descends along back of thigh and divides into tibial nerve and common peroneal nerve, usually at superior angle of popliteal fossa. Understanding of variations in the levels of division of sciatic nerve is important for the management of non- discogenic sciatica, posterior hip operations, failed sciatic nerve block. Objective: To study the variations in division of sciatic nerve and to define the level of its exit.Subjects and Methods:Seventeen cadavers (34 limbs) fixed in formalin were dissected and studied during routine dissection in department of Anatomy, Mysore Medical College and level of division of sciatic nerve were noted.Results:Out of 34 limbs, 5 cases (14.7%) were dividing at gluteal region, 2 cases (5.8%) at mid-thigh and 27 cases (79.4%) exited pelvis as a whole nerve and divided at superior angle of popliteal fossa. Type G was most common variation.Conclusion:The exit and level of division of sciatic nerve is important for surgeons as there is surgical maneuvering in this region during posterior hip operations and to avoid iatrogenic nerve injury during deep intramuscular injections in gluteal region.

MR examination plan of normal peroneal nerve and branches in popliteal fossa / 中国医学影像技术

Objective：To explore MR examination scheme for common peroneal nerve and its branches in the popliteal fossa. Methods： Oblique coronal improved fast spin echo (FSE-XL) T1W, FSE-XL T2W, FSE-XL T2W+iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation (IDEAL), short time inversion recovery (STIR) and sagittal three-dimensional fast spoiled gradient-recall echo (3D FSPGR)+IDEAL scanning were performed on 30 popliteal fossa of 30 volunteers. CNR of the peroneal nerve/femoral muscles in oblique coronal images of different sequences were calculated and compared. The displaying scores of the common peroneal nerve and its branches in oblique coronal images, of sagittal 3D FSPGR+IDEAL on common peroneal nerve and its branches were all analyzed. Results ：The overall differences of CNR in the oblique coronal FSE-XL T1W, FSE-XL T2W, STIR, FSE-XL T2W+IDEAL had statistical significance (F=123.57, P<0.01), of CNR between FSE-XL T1W, FSE-XL T2W and STIR, FSE-XL T2W+IDEA were also statistical significance (all P<0.01). There was no significant difference in overall scores of common peroneal nerve (χ2=0.077, P=0.942) among FSE-XL T1W, FSE-XL T2W, STIR and FSE-XL T2W+IDEAL, while the overall differences of the scores of lateral peroneal cutaneous nerve, deep peroneal nerve and superficial peroneal nerve among the 4 sequence images were statistical significance (all P<0.05), FSE-XL T2W+IDEAL and STIR sequence images showed statistical significance differences of lateral peroneal cutaneous nerve, the deep peroneal nerve and superficial peroneal nerve (all P<0.05). The displaying rate of 3D FSPGR+IDEAL imaging for common peroneal nerve and its branch were all 100%. Conclusion： MRI can well display common peroneal nerve and its branches in the popliteal fossa with recommended FSE-XL T2W+IDEAL and sagittal 3D FSPGR+IDEAL sequences.

Effect of red light combined with hot compress on peripheral neuropathy of diabetes / 中国基层医药

Objective@#To investigate the effect of red light combined with hot compress on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).@*Methods@#From June 2017 to June 2018, 110 patients with DPN admitted to the Department of Endocrinology, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine were selected in the study.The patients were divided into study group (55 cases) and control group (55 cases) according to the random number table method.All patients were given DPN basic care and treatment, with red light in the control group, and red light combined with hot compress in the study group.The motor nerve conduction velocity (MCV) and the sensory nerve conduction velocity (SCV) of the ulnar nerve, median nerve and common peroneal nerve were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.The total scores of the Toronto clinical scoring system (TCSS) were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.The efficacy of the two groups was compared.@*Results@#Before treatment, there were no statistically significant differences in MCV [(40.45±5.33)m/s vs.(40.14±5.08)m/s, t=0.312, P=0.755; (41.15±5.51)m/s vs.(40.86±5.23)m/s, t=0.283, P=0.778; (42.27±5.84)m/s vs.(41.94±5.75)m/s, t=0.299, P=0.766] and SCV [(39.38±4.82)m/s vs.(39.08±4.60)m/s, t=0.334, P=0.739; (40.13±5.45)m/s vs.(39.86±5.15)m/s, t=0.267, P=0.790; (41.18±5.78)m/s vs.(40.89±5.46)m/s, t=0.278, P=0.782] between the ulnar nerve, median nerve and common peroneal nerve in the two groups.After treatment, the ulnar nerve, median nerve and common peroneal nerve of the two groups were treated.The MCV[(48.77±7.25)m/s vs.(44.62±6.30)m/s, t=3.204, P=0.002; (49.35±7.46)m/s vs.(45.36±6.45)m/s, t=3.001, P=0.003; (49.26±7.13)m/s vs.(46.35±6.22)m/s, t=2.281, P=0.025] and SCV[(47.67±6.52)m/s vs.(43.57±5.61)m/s, t=3.535, P=0.001; (47.77±6.63)m/s vs.(44.31±5.14)m/s, t=3.059, P=0.003; (48.33±7.17)m/s vs.(45.12±6.41)m/s, t=2.475, P=0.015] of the two groups were increased, while which of the study group increased more significantly.Before treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in the total scores of TCSS between the two groups [(10.15±1.23)points vs.(10.45±1.51)points, t=1.142, P=0.256]. After treatment, the total scores of TCSS decreased in the two groups, while which of the study group decreased more significantly[(7.22±0.85)points vs.(8.15±0.96)points, t=5.379, P=0.000]. After treatment, the effective rate of the study group was 87.27%, which of the control group was 63.64%, the difference was statistically significant(χ2=8.295, P=0.004).@*Conclusion@#The combination of red light and hot compress on DPN has a more prominent clinical effect, which is worthy of wide application.

To improve gait of freezing in patients with Parkinson′s disease by electrical stimulation to common peroneal nerve delivered by wearable stimulator / 中华神经科杂志

Objective@#To explore whether the proprioceptive sensory cueing delivered by electrical stimulator to common peroneal nerve can improve the freezing of gait of parkinsonian patients.@*Methods@#Thirty patients with Parkinson′s disease experiencing freezing of gait (FOG) admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January to December 2018 were included in the trial. Proprioceptive sensory cueing was provided by alternating electrical stimuli to bilateral common peroneal nerves delivered through the wearable electrical stimulator automatically triggered by walking. The modified 12 meters Timed Walking Test, six items of the modified Parkinson Activity Scale (PSA-6), and FOG score were used to test the gait function respectively when the stimulator was turned on and off.@*Results@#Compared to the off status, time duration for two 360° turns (T360), initiating (T1) and the turning (T2) was reduced with statistical significance when the stimulator was turned on in the three trial situations which were walking with no extra task (17.49 (13.55, 23.48) s vs 14.73 (10.31, 21.71) s, 2.16 (1.78, 2.68) s vs 1.70 (1.38, 2.29) s, 6.37 (4.10, 7.45) s vs 4.77 (3.40, 6.85) s; Z=-3.219, -4.206, -2.910, P<0.05), walking with cognitive task (21.35 (16.30, 30.72) s vs 18.36 (13.83, 27.98) s, 2.80 (2.05, 3.75) s vs 2.04 (1.64, 3.00) s, 6.58 (5.23, 8.96) s vs 5.75 (4.59, 7.76) s; Z=-3.486, -4.206, -3.363, P<0.05) and walking with motor task (25.34 (17.79, 30.30) s vs 22.24 (14.11, 29.33) s, 2.46 (2.19, 3.18) s vs 2.35 (1.66, 2.59) s, 7.77 (4.75, 9.93) s vs 6.45 (3.81, 7.66) s; Z=-3.468, -3.983, -3.570, P<0.05). In all the three exercise modes, the maintaining time (T3) was not significantly different. With the stimulator turned on, the total walking time (Tt) was not significantly different when the patients walked without extra task and with cognitive task but obviously improved with motor task (29.26 (20.11, 33.21) s vs 27.66 (17.70, 32.73) s, Z=-2.644, P=0.008). Compared to the off status, patients showed higher PAS-6 scores (18.99±2.55 vs 16.82±2.92, t=-6.617, P=0.000) and lower FOG scores (14.10±5.02 vs 10.61±5.05, t=6.151, P=0.000) with statistical significance when the stimulator was turned on.@*Conclusion@#The wearable electrical stimulator can alleviate FOG in patients with Parkinson′s disease by improving rotation, gait initiation and turning and may be used as a new rehabilitative therapy for patients with FOG.

To improve gait of freezing in patients with Parkinson′s disease by electrical stimulation to common peroneal nerve delivered by wearable stimulator / 中华神经科杂志

Objective To explore whether the proprioceptive sensory cueing delivered by electrical stimulator to common peroneal nerve can improve the freezing of gait of parkinsonian patients. Methods Thirty patients with Parkinson′s disease experiencing freezing of gait (FOG) admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January to December 2018 were included in the trial. Proprioceptive sensory cueing was provided by alternating electrical stimuli to bilateral common peroneal nerves delivered through the wearable electrical stimulator automatically triggered by walking. The modified 12 meters Timed Walking Test, six items of the modified Parkinson Activity Scale (PSA?6), and FOG score were used to test the gait function respectively when the stimulator was turned on and off. Results Compared to the off status, time duration for two 360°turns (T360), initiating (T1) and the turning (T2) was reduced with statistical significance when the stimulator was turned on in the three trial situations which were walking with no extra task (17.49 (13.55, 23.48) s vs 14.73 (10.31, 21.71) s, 2.16 (1.78, 2.68) s vs 1.70 (1.38, 2.29) s, 6.37 (4.10, 7.45) s vs 4.77 (3.40, 6.85) s; Z=-3.219,-4.206,-2.910, P<0.05), walking with cognitive task (21.35 (16.30, 30.72) s vs 18.36 (13.83, 27.98) s, 2.80 (2.05, 3.75) s vs 2.04 (1.64, 3.00) s, 6.58 (5.23, 8.96) s vs 5.75 (4.59, 7.76) s; Z=-3.486,-4.206,-3.363, P<0.05) and walking with motor task (25.34 (17.79, 30.30) s vs 22.24 (14.11, 29.33) s, 2.46 (2.19, 3.18) s vs 2.35 (1.66, 2.59) s, 7.77 (4.75, 9.93) s vs 6.45 (3.81, 7.66) s; Z=-3.468,-3.983,-3.570, P<0.05). In all the three exercise modes, the maintaining time (T3) was not significantly different. With the stimulator turned on, the total walking time (Tt) was not significantly different when the patients walked without extra task and with cognitive task but obviously improved with motor task (29.26 (20.11, 33.21) s vs 27.66 (17.70, 32.73) s, Z=-2.644, P=0.008). Compared to the off status, patients showed higher PAS?6 scores (18.99±2.55 vs 16.82±2.92, t=-6.617, P=0.000) and lower FOG scores (14.10 ± 5.02 vs 10.61 ± 5.05, t=6.151, P=0.000) with statistical significance when the stimulator was turned on. Conclusion The wearable electrical stimulator can alleviate FOG in patients with Parkinson′s disease by improving rotation, gait initiation and turning and may be used as a new rehabilitative therapy for patients with FOG.

Clinical importance of tensor fasciae suralis arising from linea aspera along with short head of biceps femoris: a rare anomaly / 대한해부학회지

Tensor fasciae suralis, also known as ischioaponeuroticus is a clinically relevant muscle variant located in the popliteal fossa. Though rare, when present the muscle may arise from any of the hamstrings and gets inserted to the crural fascia of leg or tendocalcaneus and is innervated by the tibial component of sciatic nerve. Here we report a variant of tensor fasciae suralis originated from the lowermost part of linea aspera along with the fibers of short head of biceps femoris in the left lower limb of a male cadaver aged approximately 58 years. The muscle was 16 cm in length and 1 cm breadth in its widest part. It was found inserted to the crural fascia over the lateral head of gastrocnemius and was found innervated by common peroneal nerve. To the best of our knowledge, the tensor fascia suralis muscle originated from linea aspera along with short head of biceps femoris and innervated by common peroneal nerve has not been reported in either cadaveric or imaging studies.

Effect of red light combined with hot compress on peripheral neuropathy of diabetes / 中国基层医药

Objective To investigate the effect of red light combined with hot compress on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).Methods From June 2017 to June 2018,110 patients with DPN admitted to the Department of Endocrinology,Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine were selected in the study. The patients were divided into study group (55 cases) and control group (55 cases) according to the random number table method.All patients were given DPN basic care and treatment,with red light in the control group,and red light combined with hot compress in the study group.The motor nerve conduction velocity ( MCV) and the sensory nerve conduction velocity (SCV) of the ulnar nerve,median nerve and common peroneal nerve were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.The total scores of the Toronto clinical scoring system ( TCSS) were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.The efficacy of the two groups was compared.Results Before treatment,there were no statistically significant differences in MCV [(40.45 ± 5.33)m/s vs.(40.14 ± 5.08)m/s,t=0.312,P=0.755;(41.15 ± 5.51)m/s vs.(40.86 ± 5.23)m/s,t=0.283,P=0.778;(42.27 ± 5.84)m/s vs.(41.94 ± 5.75)m/s, t=0.299,P=0.766] and SCV [(39.38 ± 4.82) m/s vs.(39.08 ± 4.60) m/s,t=0.334,P=0.739;(40.13 ± 5.45)m/s vs.(39.86 ± 5.15)m/s,t=0.267,P=0.790;(41.18 ± 5.78)m/s vs.(40.89 ± 5.46) m/s,t=0.278, P=0.782] between the ulnar nerve,median nerve and common peroneal nerve in the two groups.After treatment,the ulnar nerve,median nerve and common peroneal nerve of the two groups were treated.The MCV[(48.77 ± 7.25)m/s vs.(44.62 ± 6.30)m/s,t=3.204,P=0.002;(49.35 ± 7.46)m/s vs.(45.36 ± 6.45)m/s,t=3.001,P=0.003;(49.26 ± 7.13)m/s vs.(46.35 ± 6.22)m/s,t=2.281,P=0.025] and SCV[(47.67 ± 6.52)m/s vs.(43.57 ± 5.61)m/s,t=3.535,P=0.001;(47.77 ± 6.63)m/s vs.(44.31 ± 5.14) m/s,t=3.059,P=0.003;(48.33 ± 7.17)m/s vs.(45.12 ± 6.41)m/s,t=2.475,P=0.015] of the two groups were increased,while which of the study group increased more significantly.Before treatment,there was no statistically significant difference in the total scores of TCSS between the two groups [(10.15 ± 1.23) points vs.(10.45 ± 1.51) points,t=1.142,P=0.256].After treatment,the total scores of TCSS decreased in the two groups, while which of the study group decreased more significantly[(7.22 ± 0.85)points vs.(8.15 ± 0.96)points,t=5.379,P=0.000].After treatment,the effective rate of the study group was 87.27%,which of the control group was 63.64%,the difference was statistically significant (χ2 =8.295,P=0.004).Conclusion The combination of red light and hot compress on DPN has a more prominent clinical effect,which is worthy of wide application.

Branching Patterns and Anatomical Course of the Common Fibular Nerve

OBJECTIVE: To present the branching patterns and anatomical course of the common fibular nerve (CFN) and its relationship with fibular head (FH).METHODS: A total of 21 limbs from 12 fresh cadavers were dissected. The FH width (FH_width), distance between the FH and CFN (FH_CFN), and thickness of the nerve were measured. The ratio of the FH_CFN to FH_width was calculated as follows: < 1, cross type and ≥1, posterior type. Angle between the CFN and vertical line of the lower limb 5 cm proximal to the tip of the FH was measured. Branching patterns of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the calf (LCNC) were classified into four types according to its origin and direction as follows: type 1a, lateral margin of the CFN; type 1b, medial margin of the CFN; type 2, lateral sural cutaneous nerve (LSCN); and type 3, CFN and LSCN.RESULTS: In the cross type (15 cases, 71.4%), the ratio of FH_CFN/FH_width was 0.83 and the angle was 13.0°. In the posterior type (6 cases, 28.6%), the ratio was 1.04 and the angle was 11.0°. In the branching patterns of LCNC, type 2 was the most common (10 cases), followed by types 1a and 1b (both, 5 cases).CONCLUSION: Location of the CFN around the FH might be related to the development of its neuropathy, especially in the cross type of CFN. The LCNC showed various branching patterns and direction, which could be associated with difficulties of electrophysiologic testing.

Anatomical Variants of “Short Head of Biceps Femoris Muscle” Associated with Common Peroneal Neuropathy in Korean Populations : An MRI Based Study

OBJECTIVE: In Asians, kneeling and squatting are the postures that are most often induce common peroneal neuropathy. However, we could not identify a compatible compression site of the common peroneal nerve (CPN) during hyper-flexion of knees. To evaluate the course of the CPN at the popliteal area related with compressive neuropathy using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of healthy Koreans.METHODS: 1.5-Tesla knee MRI scans were obtained from enrolled patients and were retrospectively reviewed. The normal populations were divided into two groups according to the anatomical course of the CPN. Type I included subjects with the CPN situated superficial to the lateral gastocnemius muscle (LGCM). Type II included subjects with the CPN between the short head of biceps femoris muscle (SHBFM) and the LGCM. We calculated the thickness of the SHBFM and posterior elongation of this muscle, and the LGCM at the level of femoral condyles. In type II, the length of popliteal tunnel where the CPN passes was measured.RESULTS: The 93 normal subjects were included in this study. The CPN passed through the “popliteal tunnel” formed between the SHBFM and the LGCM in 36 subjects (38.7% type II). The thicknesses of SHBFM and posterior portions of this muscle were statistically significantly increased in type II subjects. The LGCM thickness was comparable in both groups. In 78.8% of the “popliteal tunnel”, a length of 21 mm to < 40 mm was measured.CONCLUSION: In Korean population, the course of the CPN through the “popliteal tunnel” was about 40%, which is higher than the Western results. This anatomical characteristic may be helpful for understanding the mechanism of the CPNe by posture.