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Updated: Aug 8, 2026

The Muscle Cuff Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface for the Amplification of Intact Peripheral Nerve Signals
Published on: January 13, 2022
Superficial surgical landmarks for identifying the posterior interosseous nerve
R Shane Tubbs1, E George Salter, John C Wellons
1Department of Cell Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA. rstubbs@uab.edu
This study identifies key bone landmarks for precisely locating the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) during neurosurgery. Understanding these anatomical markers aids surgeons in avoiding complications when operating on the PIN.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Limited neurosurgical literature details the surgical anatomy of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN).
- Accurate identification of the PIN is crucial for preventing surgical complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and describe easily recognizable superficial bone landmarks for the surgical identification of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN).
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 34 cadaveric upper extremities to map the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN).
- Measurements were taken between the PIN and surrounding superficial bone landmarks.
- Detailed anatomical descriptions of the PIN's branching patterns and relationships were recorded.
Main Results:
- The main radial trunk branches into the superficial branch and PIN at the lateral epicondyle.
- The PIN exits the supinator muscle 6 cm distal to the lateral epicondyle.
- Specific muscle planes and bone landmarks (e.g., Lister tubercle) aid in identifying the PIN's course and exit points.
Conclusions:
- Establishing additional anatomical landmarks improves the precision of posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) identification.
- Enhanced anatomical knowledge assists neurosurgeons in minimizing surgical risks in the PIN region.
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