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Postinjection vastus lateralis atrophy: 2 case reports
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, Detroit, USA.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|September 15, 2000
Summary
This study details two cases of femoral nerve injury and vastus lateralis atrophy following postsurgical intramuscular meperidine injections. These unique neuropathic injection injuries have not been previously documented in medical literature.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pain Management
Background:
- Postsurgical pain management often involves intramuscular injections.
- Meperidine is an opioid analgesic used for pain relief.
- Potential complications of injections include nerve damage.
Observation:
- Two patients developed femoral nerve injury and vastus lateralis atrophy after intramuscular meperidine injections.
- One patient underwent arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction; the other had a C6-C7 anterior fusion.
- Diagnostic imaging and electrodiagnostic studies confirmed the nerve injuries.
Findings:
- The cases illustrate a unique neuropathic injection injury pattern.
- The etiology of the femoral nerve and vastus lateralis injury is linked to meperidine injections.
- This specific type of injury has not been previously reported in the literature.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of nerve damage from intramuscular meperidine injections in specific surgical contexts.
- Suggests the need for careful injection techniques and consideration of alternative pain management strategies.
- Emphasizes the importance of recognizing and reporting rare neurological complications in surgical patients.
