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Peroneal neuropathy from ankle-foot orthoses
Monique M Ryan1, Basil T Darras, Janet S Soul
1Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Pediatric Neurology
|September 19, 2003
Summary
Pediatric peroneal palsies, though uncommon, can cause disability. This case highlights how cardiac transplant patients with hemophilia and immobilization may develop these nerve injuries from ankle-foot orthoses.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Mononeuropathies are rare in children but can lead to significant disability.
- Pediatric peroneal palsies often result from iatrogenic causes like casting, footboards, and positioning during surgery.
Observation:
- This article describes a patient who experienced bilateral peroneal palsies following cardiac transplantation.
- Predisposing factors for this patient's neuropathy included hemophilia and extended immobilization.
- Focal involvement of the peroneal nerves was likely linked to the use of ankle-foot orthoses.
Findings:
- Peroneal nerve palsies can occur as an iatrogenic complication in pediatric patients.
- Risk factors such as hemophilia and prolonged immobilization increase susceptibility.
- Ankle-foot orthoses represent a specific risk factor for peroneal nerve injury.
Implications:
- Awareness of iatrogenic risks associated with lower-extremity orthoses is crucial.
- Preventive strategies should be considered for high-risk pediatric patients.
- Early recognition and management of peroneal nerve palsies can mitigate long-term disability.