Latrogenic injuries of radial nerve:A report of 36 cases / 重庆医科大学学报

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate the causes, the prevention and the treatment of iatrogenic radial nerve injuries.Methods: From March 1987 to March 2000 ,the authors treated 36 cases of iatrogenic radial nerve injuries .Of the 36 cases ,33 cases occurred after the orthopaedic operation ,3 cases occurred after the manipulative reduction. 32 cases were treated surgically, and the other 4 cases were treated non-surgically. 8 cases were repaired by epineurial suturing or by epi-fascicular suturing to connect the severed ends of the nerves. 19 cases were treated with neurolysis operation, 8 cases with tendon transfer and 3 cases with palliative treatment. Results: 27 cases were followed up for 1 year to 6 years. The curative effect was assessed according to Zhang Xianzhong"s norm. The recovery of 20 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good, 3 cases were poor.Conclusion:The iatrogenic radial nerve injury can be avoided if the surgeon take a high responsibility and grasp a precise knowledge of pertinent anatomy. At the same time more attention should be paid in operation. Once incurred, the damage can be minimized if it is recognised and treated earlier.