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Common peroneal nerve palsy following knee arthroscopy
D S Johnson1, D P Sharma, I H Bangash
1Blackburn Royal Infirmary, England. David.Johnson@nwota.demon.co.uk
Summary
A knee arthroscopy patient developed common peroneal nerve damage, likely from patient positioning during surgery. This traction injury resulted in incomplete nerve recovery after 17 months.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Knee arthroscopy is a common orthopedic procedure.
- Nerve injuries are a potential complication of surgical positioning.
- The common peroneal nerve is vulnerable during lower extremity procedures.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old woman experienced common peroneal nerve dysfunction post-knee arthroscopy.
- Neurophysiological studies confirmed the nerve lesion.
- Surgical exploration revealed the nerve was intact but affected.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited incomplete recovery 17 months post-surgery.
- The nerve lesion was attributed to a traction injury.
- This type of injury related to patient positioning is previously unreported.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of iatrogenic nerve injury from patient positioning in knee arthroscopy.
- Suggests careful patient positioning protocols are crucial for preventing nerve complications.
- Underscores the importance of considering traction injuries in postoperative nerve deficits.