RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Symptomatic idiopathic ulnar nerve instability (IUNI) in the elbow is an uncommon condition characterized by symptoms of ulnar neuritis resulting from frictional injury to the ulnar nerve from repetitive subluxation out of the cubital tunnel. This study reports the 1-year clinical outcomes after treatment of IUNI with anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve. METHODS: This is a retrospective case study of five patients. Ulnar nerve instability was diagnosed clinically based on the presence of ulnar neuritis symptoms in combination with a positive "ulnar nerve push past" test. Electromyography (EMG) was performed on all patients. After failure of nonsurgical treatment, five patients underwent anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Clinical outcome scores and time to resolution of symptoms were recorded at a minimum follow-up of 12 months. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 37.8 years (range: 18 to 57 years). The mean duration of symptoms prior to surgery was 15.7 ± 4.9 months. All five patients reported neuritis symptoms in the distribution of ulnar nerve in the hand and had ulnar nerve instability in the cubital tunnel on clinical examination. All patients were symptom free within 6 months after anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve.
Asunto(s)
Electromiografía , Nervio Cubital , Neuropatías Cubitales , Humanos , Adulto , Persona de Mediana Edad , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/fisiopatología , Estudios Retrospectivos , Masculino , Resultado del Tratamiento , Femenino , Adulto Joven , Adolescente , Neuropatías Cubitales/cirugía , Neuropatías Cubitales/etiología , Neuropatías Cubitales/diagnóstico , Neuropatías Cubitales/fisiopatología , Recuperación de la Función , Factores de Tiempo , Articulación del Codo/cirugía , Articulación del Codo/fisiopatología , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/cirugía , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/diagnóstico , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/fisiopatología , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/etiología , Procedimientos Neuroquirúrgicos/métodos , Procedimientos Neuroquirúrgicos/efectos adversosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Recurrent ulnar nerve compression after primary anterior subcutaneous transposition is relatively rare, and revision surgery is challenging. This study retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of revision anterior subcutaneous transposition for recurrent ulnar nerve compression. METHODS: Eight patients who underwent revision anterior subcutaneous transposition for recurrent ulnar nerve compression were enrolled in this study. The outcomes were based on preoperative and postoperative symptoms, physical examination findings, and electromyographic evaluation. RESULTS: Ulnar nerve enlargement was preoperatively found in all patients with a mean cross sectional area of 0.15 cm2 (range, 0.14-0.18 cm2). Intraoperative findings showed that recurrent compression occurred in three areas, including the medial intermuscular septum (n = 5), the medial epicondyle (n = 6) and nerve entrance to forearm fascia (n = 1). Post-operation, significant improvements were observed in ring/little finger numbness (from severe to mild, p = 0.031), grip strength (from 48.00% to 80.38% of the intact side, p < 0.001) and McGowan grade (from Grade III to Grade I, p = 0.049). Postoperative electromyography test also showed significant improvement in motor nerve conduction at elbow (velocity, 23.30 ± 9.598 vs. 35.30 ± 9.367, p = 0.012; amplitude, 3.40 ± 3.703 vs. 5.65 ± 2.056, p = 0.007) and sensory nerve conduction at wrist (velocity, 27.04 ± 22.450 vs. 36.45 ± 18.099, p = 0.139; amplitude, 1.44 ± 1.600 vs. 4.00 ± 2.642, p = 0.011). Seven of the eight patients reported satisfaction with the postoperative results. CONCLUSIONS: Revision anterior subcutaneous transposition was an effective treatment for recurrent ulnar nerve compression from prior failed procedures.
Asunto(s)
Reoperación , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Reoperación/métodos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Estudios Retrospectivos , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Anciano , Resultado del Tratamiento , Descompresión Quirúrgica/métodos , RecurrenciaRESUMEN
Upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries present functional deficits that are amenable to management by tendon or nerve transfers. The principles of tendon and nerve transfers are discussed, with technical descriptions of preferred tendon and nerve transfers for radial, median, and ulnar nerve injuries.
Asunto(s)
Transferencia de Nervios , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos , Transferencia Tendinosa , Extremidad Superior , Humanos , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/cirugía , Transferencia Tendinosa/métodos , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Extremidad Superior/inervación , Extremidad Superior/cirugía , Extremidad Superior/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Mediano/lesiones , Nervio Mediano/cirugía , Nervio Radial/lesiones , Nervio Radial/cirugíaRESUMEN
Heterotopic ossification (HO) is characterized by the formation of pathological bone within the soft tissues. HO predominantly affects elbow joints and may be accompanied by tardy ulnar nerve palsy. This study aimed to explore the clinical and functional outcomes of patients with tardy ulnar nerve palsy caused by HO following surgical treatment, with a review of the relevant literature. A retrospective study was conducted on 4 patients with tardy ulnar nerve palsy caused by HO, who underwent anterior subcutaneous ulnar nerve transposition between 2015 and 2020. The patients were followed up for more than 1 year and the cause of HO was also identified. Clinical and functional outcomes were evaluating using the grip strength and pinch strength, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score and Quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score. The causes of HO were repetitive micro-trauma in 1 case and excessive physical or rehabilitation therapy in 3 cases. The average follow-up period was 15.6 months (range; 12-21 months). The grip strength increased from an average of 14kg to 26.5kg. The pinch strength increased from an average of 1.5 kg to 3.63 kg. The Quick DASH score decreased from an average of 55.6 to 6.15. The VAS score for pain decreased from an average of 7 to 0.25. Rapid surgical treatment, including removal of the heterotopic bone and ulnar nerve anterior transposition, might improve outcomes in patients with tardy ulnar nerve palsy caused by HO.
Asunto(s)
Osificación Heterotópica , Humanos , Osificación Heterotópica/cirugía , Masculino , Estudios Retrospectivos , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Neuropatías Cubitales/cirugía , Neuropatías Cubitales/etiología , Fuerza de la Mano , Articulación del Codo/cirugía , Articulación del Codo/fisiopatología , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Resultado del Tratamiento , Dimensión del Dolor , AncianoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: High ulnar nerve injuries is known to have unfavorable motor outcomes compared to other peripheral nerve injuries in the upper extremity. Functional muscle recovery after peripheral nerve injury depends on the time to motor end plate reinnervation and the number of motor axons that successfully reach the target muscle. The purpose of this study is to assess the functional recovery, and complications following performing supercharge end-to-side (SETS) anastomosis for proximal ulnar nerve injuries. Our study focuses on the role of SETS in the recovery process of high ulnar nerve injury. PATIENT AND METHODS: This study is a prospective, single-arm, open-label, case series. The original proximal nerve pathology was dealt with according to the cause of injury, then SETS was performed distally. The follow-up period was 18 months. We compared the neurological findings before and after the procedure. A new test was used to show the effect of SETS on recovery by performing a Lidocaine proximal ulnar nerve block test. RESULTS: Recovery of the motor function of the ulnar nerve was evident in 33 (86.8%) patients. The mean time to intrinsic muscle recovery was 6.85 months ± 1.3, only 11.14% of patients restored protective sensation to the palm and finger and 86.8% showed sensory level at the wrist level at the end of the follow-up period. Lidocaine block test was performed on 35 recovered patients and showed no change in intrinsic hand function in 31 patients. CONCLUSION: SETS exhibit a remarkable role in the treatment of high ulnar nerve damage. SETS transfer can act as a nerve transfer that can supply intrinsic muscles by its fibers and allows for proximal nerve regeneration. We believe that this technique improves recovery of hand motor function and allows recovery of sensory fibers when combined with treating the proximal lesion. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Approved by Research Ethics Committee of Faculty of Medicine- Cairo University on 01/09/2021 with code number: MD-215-2021.
Asunto(s)
Transferencia de Nervios , Recuperación de la Función , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Estudios Prospectivos , Nervio Cubital/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Adulto , Masculino , Femenino , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto Joven , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/cirugía , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/etiología , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/fisiopatología , Resultado del Tratamiento , Estudios de Seguimiento , Regeneración Nerviosa/fisiología , AdolescenteRESUMEN
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a risk factor for the development of ulnar nerve entrapment (UNE). Differences in surgical outcomes for UNE between patients with and without DM have been reported, but studies on presurgical management are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the presurgical management of UNE in patients with (DM diagnosis < 2 years of UNE diagnosis) and without DM regarding the level of care for diagnosis and the proportion that proceeds to surgery. Data from 6600 patients with UNE between 2004 and 2019 were included from the Skåne Health Care Register (SHR) and cross-linked with data from the Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR). The group with UNE and DM was compared to the group with UNE without DM and prevalence ratios were calculated using Cox regression analysis. Patients with DM more often got their first UNE diagnosis in secondary care than in primary care (643/667, 96% vs. 5361/5786; 93%). Patients with and without DM, regardless of the type of DM, presence of retinopathy, or HbA1c levels, were surgically treated for UNE to the same extent (258/667, 39% of patients with DM vs. 2131/5786, 37% of patients without DM). The proportion of surgically treated was significantly lower among patients diagnosed with UNE in primary care compared to secondary care (59/449, 13% vs. 2330/5786, 38%). Men were more often surgically treated than women (1228/3191, 38% vs.1161/3262 36%). Patients with UNE and DM are surgically treated to the same extent as patients with UNE but without DM and are more likely to be diagnosed in specialized care.
Asunto(s)
Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/etiología , Anciano , Suecia/epidemiología , Diabetes Mellitus/cirugía , Adulto , Sistema de Registros , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Factores de RiesgoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Traumatic peripheral nerve injury, with an annual incidence reported to be approximately 13-23 per 100,000 people, is a serious clinical condition that can often lead to significant functional impairment and permanent disability. Although nerve transfer has become increasingly popular in the treatment of brachial plexus injuries, satisfactory results cannot be obtained even with total nerve root transfer, especially after serious injuries. To overcome this problem, we hypothesize that the application of stem cells in conjunction with nerve transfer procedures may be a viable alternative to more aggressive treatments that do not result in adequate improvement. Similarly, some preliminary studies have shown that adipose stem cells combined with acellular nerve allograft provide promising results in the repair of brachial plexus injury. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of combining adipose-derived stem cells with nerve transfer procedure in a rat brachial plexus injury model. METHODS: Twenty female Wistar rats weighing 300-350 g and aged 8-10 weeks were randomly divided into two groups: a nerve transfer group (NT group) and a nerve transfer combined adipose stem cell group (NT and ASC group). The upper brachial plexus injury model was established by gently avulsing the C5-C6 roots from the spinal cord with microforceps. A nerve transfer from the ulnar nerve to the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin procedure) was performed with or without seeded allogeneic adipose tissue-derived stem cells. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells at a rate of 2 × 106 cells were injected locally to the surface of the nerve transfer area with a 23-gauge needle. Immunohistochemistry (S100 and PGP 9.5 antibodies) and electrophysiological data were used to evaluate the effect of nerve repair 12 weeks after surgery. RESULTS: The mean latency was significantly longer in the NT group (2.0 ± 0.0 ms, 95% CI: 1.96-2.06) than in the NT and ASC group (1.7 ± 0.0 ms, 95% CI: 1.7-1.7) (p < .001). The mean peak value was higher in the NT group (1.7 ± 0.0 mV, 95% CI: 1.7-1.7) than in the NT and ASC group (1.7 ± 0.3 mV, 95% CI: 1.6-1.9) with no significant difference (p = .61). Although S100 and PGP 9.5 positive areas were observed in higher amounts in the NT and ASC group compared to the NT group, the differences were not statistically significant (p = .26 and .08, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: This study conducted on rats provides preliminary evidence that adipose-derived stem cells may have a positive effect on nerve transfer for the treatment of brachial plexus injury. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these findings.
Asunto(s)
Tejido Adiposo , Plexo Braquial , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Nervio Musculocutáneo , Regeneración Nerviosa , Transferencia de Nervios , Ratas Wistar , Nervio Cubital , Animales , Ratas , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Femenino , Regeneración Nerviosa/fisiología , Plexo Braquial/lesiones , Plexo Braquial/cirugía , Nervio Musculocutáneo/cirugía , Tejido Adiposo/citología , Tejido Adiposo/trasplante , Nervio Cubital/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/trasplante , Trasplante de Células Madre/métodos , Distribución Aleatoria , Neuropatías del Plexo Braquial/cirugía , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/cirugíaRESUMEN
PURPOSE: Pain in conjunction with surgery for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow is seldom highlighted in the literature. This study aimed to explore patients' experiences of living with chronic pain (≥3 months duration) in conjunction with surgery for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow, the consequences and the coping strategies applied. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants aged 18-60 years. The narratives were analyzed using an inductive approach and content-analysis. RESULTS: The analysis revealed seven main categories: "Physical symptoms/impairments" and "Mood and emotions"comprise symptoms caused by ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow and chronic pain; "Consequences in daily life" includes challenges and obstacles in every-day life, impact on leisure activities and social life; "Struggling with self-image" embraces experiences closely related to identity; "Coping strategies" covers adaptive resources; "Experience of relief "describes perceived improvements; "Key message for future care" comprises important aspects for healthcare providers to consider. CONCLUSIONS: The results clarify the need for healthcare personnel to adopt a biopsychosocial approach when treating patients with ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow. Emotional symptoms and sleep disturbances should be identified and treated properly since they contribute to the heavy burden experienced by the individual.
Asunto(s)
Dolor Crónico , Codo , Investigación Cualitativa , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Adulto , Femenino , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Adolescente , Dolor Crónico/cirugía , Dolor Crónico/psicología , Codo/cirugía , Adulto Joven , Adaptación Psicológica , Nervio Cubital/cirugíaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Double crush syndrome refers to a nerve in the proximal region being compressed, affecting its proximal segment. Instances of this syndrome involving ulnar and cubital canals during ulnar neuropathy are rare. Diagnosis solely through clinical examination is challenging. Although electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) can confirm neuropathy, they do not incorporate inching tests at the wrist, hindering diagnosis confirmation. We recently encountered eight cases of suspected double compression of ulnar nerve, reporting these cases along with a literature review. METHODS: The study included 5 males and 2 females, averaging 45.6 years old. Among them, 4 had trauma history, and preoperative McGowan stages varied. Ulnar neuropathy was confirmed in 7 cases at both cubital and ulnar canal locations. Surgery was performed for 4 cases, while conservative treatment continued for 3 cases. RESULTS: In 4 cases with wrist involvement, 2 showed ulnar nerve compression by a fibrous band, and 1 had nodular hyperplasia. Another case displayed ulnar nerve swelling with muscle covering. Among the 4 surgery cases, 2 improved from preoperative McGowan stage IIB to postoperative stage 0, with significant improvement in subjective satisfaction. The remaining 2 cases improved from stage IIB to IIA, respectively, with moderate improvement in subjective satisfaction. In the 3 cases receiving conservative treatment, satisfaction was significant in 1 case and moderate in 2 cases. Overall, there was improvement in hand function across all 7 cases. CONCLUSION: Typical outpatient examinations make it difficult to clearly differentiate the two sites, and EMG tests may not confirm diagnosis. Therefore, if a surgeon lacks suspicion of this condition, diagnosis becomes even more challenging. In cases with less than expected postoperative improvement in clinical symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome, consideration of double crush syndrome is warranted. Additional tests and detailed EMG tests, including inching tests at the wrist, may be necessary. We aim to raise awareness double crush syndrome with ulnar nerve, reporting a total of 7 cases to support this concept.
Asunto(s)
Síndrome de Aplastamiento , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital , Adulto , Anciano , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Síndrome de Aplastamiento/cirugía , Síndrome de Aplastamiento/diagnóstico , Síndrome de Aplastamiento/complicaciones , Síndrome de Aplastamiento/fisiopatología , Codo/inervación , Codo/cirugía , Electromiografía , Conducción Nerviosa/fisiología , Resultado del Tratamiento , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/fisiopatología , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/diagnóstico , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/etiología , Síndromes de Compresión del Nervio Cubital/fisiopatología , Muñeca/inervaciónRESUMEN
Subcutaneous anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve is a common surgical treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome. However, there are surgical failures associated with the new compressive sites at the edge of flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) and resubluxation posterior to the medial epicondyle of the transposed nerve. To reduce the muscle volume at the edge of FCU, we approach the ulnar nerve by dividing the muscle belly of the FCU humeral heads. This procedure can reduce repeated traction forces on the transposed nerve at the edge of the FCU. To keep the transposed ulnar nerve anteriorly, we use a fat flap including the membranous superficial fascia. This flap can softly stabilize the ulnar nerve and act as a pliable cover to prevent perineural scarring or further constriction around the flap. Ninety-three elbows in 90 patients who had undergone this procedure for cubital tunnel syndrome were evaluated. According to Messina's criteria, the numbers of patients showing excellent, good, fair, and poor recovery were 41 (44%), 47 (51%), 5 (5%), and 0 (0%), respectively. Most patients experience resolution of symptoms and good functional outcomes. None of the patients suffered recurrence, infection, or nerve injury.
Asunto(s)
Síndrome del Túnel Cubital , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Anciano , Colgajos Quirúrgicos , Prevención Secundaria , Recurrencia , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
Ulnar nerve release is often performed under general anaesthesia. Wide Awake Local Anaesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) is a new anaesthetic method increasingly used by hand surgeons in an outpatient setting. It has advantages such as the possibility to shift surgical interventions out of the regular surgical theatre settings into an outpatient clinical setting, no risk of complications or side effects resulting from regional and general anesthesia and decreased costs. The use of WALANT has not been investigated extensively in elbow surgery. This study aims to evaluate clinical outcomes after ulnar nerve release under WALANT 27 patients with ulnar nerve release for cubital tunnel syndrome were included. The primary outcome was the presence of (remaining) symptoms after ulnar nerve release. Data was extracted from medical records. 13 out of 27 patients had (mild) remaining symptoms after ulnar nerve release, and 1 complication (superficial wound infection) was seen. Ulnar nerve release under WALANT is safe and effective in patients with primary ulnar nerve entrapment that have failed conservative therapy.
Asunto(s)
Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Ambulatorios , Anestesia Local , Anestésicos Locales , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital , Humanos , Anestesia Local/métodos , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Síndrome del Túnel Cubital/cirugía , Adulto , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Ambulatorios/métodos , Anestésicos Locales/administración & dosificación , Anciano , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Torniquetes , Resultado del Tratamiento , Estudios RetrospectivosRESUMEN
Peripheral nerve injuries present a complex clinical challenge, requiring a nuanced approach in surgical management. The consequences of injury vary, with sometimes severe disability, and a risk of lifelong pain for the individual. For late management, the choice of surgical techniques available range from neurolysis and nerve grafting to tendon and nerve transfers. The choice of technique utilized demands an in-depth understanding of the anatomy, patient demographics and the time elapsed since injury for optimized outcomes. This paper focuses on injuries to the radial, median and ulnar nerves, outlining the authors' approach to these injuries.Level of evidence: IV.
Asunto(s)
Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos , Extremidad Superior , Humanos , Traumatismos de los Nervios Periféricos/cirugía , Extremidad Superior/inervación , Extremidad Superior/lesiones , Extremidad Superior/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Tiempo de Tratamiento , Nervio Mediano/lesiones , Nervio Mediano/cirugía , Nervio Radial/lesiones , Nervio Radial/cirugía , Procedimientos Neuroquirúrgicos/métodosRESUMEN
HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to compare inter- and intraobserver agreement of a novel intraoperative subluxation classification for patients undergoing ulnar nerve surgery at the elbow. We hypothesize there will be strong inter- and intraobserver agreement of the 4-category classification system, and reviewers will have substantial confidence while reviewing the classification system. METHODS: Four blinded fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeons reviewed 25 videos in total on 2 separate viewings, 21 days apart. Variables collected were ulnar subluxation classification (A, B, C, or D) and a confidence metric. Subsequent to primary data collection, classification grading was stratified into A/B or C/D subgroups for further analysis. Cohen κ scores were used to evaluate all variables collected in this study. The interpretation of κ scores included ≤0.0 as no agreement, 0.01-0.20 as none to slight, 0.21-0.40 as fair, 0.41-0.60 as moderate, 0.61-0.80 as substantial, and 0.81-1.0 as almost perfect agreement. RESULTS: Interobserver agreement of subluxation classification as a 4-category scale demonstrated a moderate agreement on first viewing, second viewing, and when both viewings were combined (κ = 0.51, 0.51, and 0.51 respectively). Seventy-five percent (3 of 4) of reviewers had moderate intraobserver agreement for ulnar nerve subluxation classification, whereas 1 reviewer had substantial intraobserver classification (κ = 0.72). Overall, there was high confidence in 65% of classification scores in the second round of viewing, which improved from 58% in the first viewing round. When ulnar subluxation classification selections were regrouped into classes A/B or C/D, 100% of reviewers had substantial interobserver (κ = 0.74-0.75) and substantial to almost perfect intraobserver (κ = 0.71-0.91) agreement. CONCLUSIONS: The 4-category classification was reproducible within and between reviewers. Agreement appeared to increase when simplifying the classification to 2 categories, which may provide guidance to surgical decision making. The validation of a reproducible classification scheme for intraoperative ulnar subluxation may aid with decision making and further postoperative outcomes research.
Asunto(s)
Variaciones Dependientes del Observador , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Articulación del Codo/cirugía , Transferencia de Nervios/métodosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: High ulnar nerve injuries result in intrinsic muscle weakness and are inconvenient for patients. Moreover, conventional surgical techniques often fail to achieve satisfactory motor recovery. A potential reconstructive solution in the form of the supercharge end-to-side (SETS) anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) transfer method has emerged. Therefore, this study aims to compare surgical outcomes of patients with transected and in-continuity high ulnar nerve lesions following SETS AIN transfer. METHODS: Between June 2015 and May 2023, patients with high ulnar palsy in the form of transection injuries or lesion-in-continuity were recruited. The assessment encompassed several objective results, including grip strength, key pinch strength, compound muscle action potential, sensory nerve action potential, and two-point discrimination tests. The muscle power of finger abduction and adduction was also recorded. Additionally, subjective questionnaires were utilized to collect data on patient-reported outcomes. Overall, the patients were followed up for up to 2 years. RESULTS: Patients with transected high ulnar nerve lesions exhibited worse baseline performance than those with lesion-in-continuity, including motor and sensory functions. However, they experienced greater motor improvement but less sensory recovery, resulting in comparable final motor outcomes in both groups. In contrast, the transection group showed worse sensory outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that SETS AIN transfer benefits patients with high ulnar nerve palsy, regardless of the lesion type. Nonetheless, improvements may be more pronounced in patients with transected lesions.
Asunto(s)
Transferencia de Nervios , Recuperación de la Función , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Masculino , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Femenino , Adulto , Nervio Cubital/lesiones , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Persona de Mediana Edad , Resultado del Tratamiento , Adulto Joven , Fuerza de la Mano/fisiología , Neuropatías Cubitales/cirugía , Neuropatías Cubitales/etiología , Estudios de Seguimiento , AdolescenteRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Transfer of the fascicle carrying the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) branch of the ulnar nerve (UN) to the biceps/brachialis muscle branch of the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin's procedure), is a mainstay technique for elbow flexion restoration in patients with upper brachial plexus injury. Despite its widespread use, there are few studies regarding the anatomic location of the donor fascicle for Oberlin's procedure. Our report aims to analyze the anatomical variability of this fascicle within the UN, while obtaining quantifiable, objective data with intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) for donor fascicle selection. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of patients at our institution who underwent an Oberlin's procedure from September 2019 to July 2023. We used IONM for donor fascicle selection (greatest FCU muscle and least intrinsic hand muscle activation). We prospectively obtained demographic and electrophysiological data, as well as anatomical location of donor fascicles and post-surgical morbidities. Surgeon's perception of FCU/intrinsic muscle contraction was compared to objective muscle amplitude during IONM. RESULTS: Eight patients were included, with a mean age of 30.5 years and an injury-to-surgery interval of 4 months. Donor fascicle was located anterior in two cases, posterior in two, radial in two and ulnar in two patients. Correlation between surgeon's perception and IONM findings were consistent in six (75%) cases. No long term motor or sensory deficits were registered. CONCLUSIONS: Fascicle anatomy within the UN at the proximal arm is highly variable. The use of IONM can aid in optimizing donor fascicle selection for Oberlin's procedure.
Asunto(s)
Monitorización Neurofisiológica Intraoperatoria , Transferencia de Nervios , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Estudios Retrospectivos , Adulto , Masculino , Femenino , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/anatomía & histología , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Monitorización Neurofisiológica Intraoperatoria/métodos , Plexo Braquial/anatomía & histología , Plexo Braquial/cirugía , Plexo Braquial/lesiones , Músculo Esquelético , Adulto Joven , Neuropatías del Plexo Braquial/cirugía , Persona de Mediana EdadRESUMEN
ABSTRACT: We describe a new technique of transferring the motor branch ulnar nerve (UN) to the axillary nerve (AN) by posterior approach. Three patients with C5, C6, and C7 brachial plexus injury were operated. By supraclavicular approach, the spinal accessory was transferred to the suprascapular nerve. By posterior approach in the arm, the AN was identified within the quadrilateral space, and the UN was identified medially with intrafascicular dissection of a motor fascicle, which is lifted to 4 cm in length and transferred to AN. By medial approach, a motor branch from the median nerve is transferred to the biceps nerve. At a follow-up minimum of 10 months, the maximum abduction was 160 and the minimum 90 degrees. This technique, neurotization of the AN with fascicles of the UN, spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve, and median nerve branch to biceps nerve are indicated in C5-C7 avulsion when there is no radial nerve available. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.
Asunto(s)
Plexo Braquial , Transferencia de Nervios , Nervio Cubital , Humanos , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Plexo Braquial/cirugía , Plexo Braquial/lesiones , Plexo Braquial/anatomía & histología , Masculino , Adulto , Axila/inervación , Femenino , Nervio Accesorio/cirugíaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Nerve transfers from one common donor nerve to recipient nerves with multiple target branches can yield slower and unpredictable recovery in the target nerves. Our hypothesis is that steal phenomenon exists when multiple nerve neurotization comes from one donor nerve. METHODS: In 30 Sprague-Dawley rats, the left ulnar nerve (UN) was selected as the donor nerve, and the musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) and median nerve (MN) as the recipient target nerves. The rats were separated into three groups (10 rats in each): group A, UN-to-MCN (one-target); group B, UN-to-MN (one-target); and group C, UN-to-MCN and MN (two-target). The right upper limbs were nonoperative as the control group. Outcome obtained at 20 weeks after surgery included grooming test, muscle weight, compound muscle action potential, tetanic muscle contraction force, axon counts, and retrograde labeling of the involved donor and target nerves. RESULTS: At 20 weeks after surgery, muscles innervated by neurotization resulted in significant worse outcomes than the control side. This was especially true in two-target neurotization in the parameter of muscle weight and forearm flexor muscle contraction force outcome when compared to one-target neurotization. Steal phenomenon does exist because flexor muscle contraction force was significantly worse during two-target neurotization. CONCLUSION: This study proves the existence of steal phenomenon in multiple target neurotization but does not significantly affect the functional results. Postoperative rehabilitative measures (including electrical stimulation, induction exercise) and patient compliance (ambition and persistence) are other crucial factors that hold equivalent importance to long-term successful recovery.
Asunto(s)
Nervio Mediano , Regeneración Nerviosa , Transferencia de Nervios , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Nervio Cubital , Animales , Transferencia de Nervios/métodos , Ratas , Nervio Cubital/trasplante , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Regeneración Nerviosa/fisiología , Músculo Esquelético/inervación , Músculo Esquelético/irrigación sanguínea , Contracción Muscular/fisiología , Nervio Musculocutáneo , Recuperación de la Función/fisiología , Masculino , Modelos Animales de EnfermedadRESUMEN
PURPOSE: Microsuture neurorrhaphy is technically challenging and has inherent drawbacks. This study evaluated the potential of a novel, sutureless nerve coaptation device to improve efficiency and precision. METHODS: Twelve surgeons participated in this study-six attending hand/microsurgeons and six trainees (orthopedic and plastic surgery residents or hand surgery fellows). Twenty-four cadaver arm specimens were used, and nerve repairs were performed at six sites in each specimen-the median and ulnar nerves in the proximal forearm, the median and ulnar nerves in the distal forearm, and the common digital nerves to the second and third web spaces. Each study participant performed nerve repairs at all six injury locations in two different cadaver arms (n = 12 total repairs for each participating surgeon). The nerve repairs were timed, tested for tensile strength, and graded for alignment and technical repair quality. RESULTS: A substantial reduction in time was required to perform repairs with the novel coaptation device (1.6 ± 0.8 minutes) compared with microsuture (7.2 ± 3.6 minutes). Device repairs were judged clinically acceptable (scoring "Excellent" or "Good" by most of the expert panel) in 97% of the repairs; the percentage of suture repairs receiving Excellent/Good scores by most of the expert panel was 69.4% for attending surgeons and 36.1% for trainees. The device repairs exhibited a higher average peak tensile force (7.0 ± 3.6 N) compared with suture repairs (2.6 ± 1.6 N). CONCLUSIONS: Nerve repairs performed with a novel repair device were performed faster and with higher technical precision than those performed using microsutures. Device repairs had substantially greater tensile strength than microsuture repairs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The evaluated novel nerve repair device may improve surgical efficiency and nerve repair quality.
Asunto(s)
Mano , Nervios Periféricos , Humanos , Nervios Periféricos/cirugía , Mano/cirugía , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Brazo , Cadáver , Técnicas de SuturaRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: A supracondylar process is a bony spur on the distal anteromedial surface of the humerus, and it is considered an anatomical variant with a prevalence of 0.4-2.7% according to anatomical studies. In almost all cases, it is associated with a fibrous, sometimes ossified ligament, which extends from the supracondylar process to the medial epicondyle. This ligament is known in the literature as the ligament of Struthers, named after the Scottish anatomist who first described it in detail in 1854. In rare cases, the supracondylar process can be a clinically relevant finding as a cause of nerve compression syndrome. The median and ulnar nerve can be trapped by the ring-shaped structure formed by the ligament of Struthers and the supracondylar process. CASE REPORT: A 59-year-old patient with symptoms of a cubital tunnel syndrome and additional ipsilateral sensory deficits in his thumb was referred to our clinic. Electroneurography showed no signs of an additional carpal tunnel syndrome. Preoperative x-ray and CT scans of the upper arm revealed a supracondylar process, which led us to suspect an associated entrapment of the median nerve. An MRI scan of the upper arm showed a ligament of Struthers and signs of a related median nerve compression as we initially assumed. We performed a surgical decompression of the median nerve in the distal upper arm and of the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel. Intraoperatively, there was evidence of compression of the median nerve due to the supracondylar process and the ligament of Struthers. The latter was cleaved and then resected along with the supracondylar process. Three months after surgery, the patient had no motor or sensory deficits. SUMMARY: The ring-shaped structure formed by the supracondylar process and ligament of Struthers represents a rare cause of compression syndrome of the median and ulnar nerve. Its incidence remains unknown so far. This anatomical variant should be considered a differential diagnosis in case of possibly related nerve entrapment symptoms after ruling out other, more frequent nerve compression causes. Moreover, the supracondylar process should be completely resected including the periosteum during surgery to minimise the risk of recurrence.
Asunto(s)
Síndrome del Túnel Carpiano , Síndromes de Compresión Nerviosa , Humanos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Nervio Mediano/cirugía , Ligamentos/cirugía , Húmero/diagnóstico por imagen , Húmero/cirugía , Húmero/inervación , Brazo , Nervio Cubital/cirugía , Síndrome del Túnel Carpiano/diagnóstico , Síndrome del Túnel Carpiano/etiología , Síndrome del Túnel Carpiano/cirugía , Síndromes de Compresión Nerviosa/diagnóstico , Síndromes de Compresión Nerviosa/etiología , Síndromes de Compresión Nerviosa/cirugíaRESUMEN
CASES: We present 2 cases of median nerve reconstruction using distal nerve transfers after resection of unusual benign median nerve tumors. Critical sensation was restored in case 1 by transferring the fourth common digital nerve to first web digital nerves. Thumb opposition was regained by transferring the abductor digiti minimi ulnar motor nerve branch to the recurrent median motor nerve branch. Critical sensation was restored in case 2 by transferring the long finger ulnar digital nerve to the index finger radial digital nerve. CONCLUSION: Distal nerve transfers, even with short grafts, are reliable median nerve deficit treatments, sparing the need for larger autologous nerve grafts and late tendon opponensplasties.