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Published on: August 15, 2019
Iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries: a systematic review.
John Zhang1, Abigail E Moore, Mark D Stringer
1Department of Anatomy & Structural Biology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
ANZ Journal of Surgery
|March 23, 2011
Summary
Iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries are common complications, often occurring during surgery. Enhanced anatomical knowledge and procedural awareness can help prevent most of these nerve injuries.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
- Anatomy
Background:
- Iatrogenic peripheral nerve injuries are frequent complications, leading to significant patient morbidity and medico-legal issues.
- These injuries predominantly affect upper limb nerves and often occur in surgical environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review major iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries.
- To evaluate the current spectrum, context, mechanisms, and incidence of these injuries.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of literature published between January 2000 and May 2010.
- Searched databases included MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar.
- Focused analysis on injuries to the brachial plexus, radial, axillary, ulnar, median, musculocutaneous, and major cutaneous nerves.
Main Results:
- Iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries are common across surgical specialties, even during diagnostic procedures under anesthesia.
- Orthopaedic and plastic/reconstructive surgery are frequently associated with these nerve injuries.
- The nature of iatrogenic nerve injuries evolves with advancements in surgical and anesthetic techniques.
Conclusions:
- While some iatrogenic nerve injuries may be unavoidable, many are preventable.
- Adequate knowledge of surgical anatomy is crucial for prevention.
- Awareness of nerve vulnerability during specific procedures is essential for mitigating risk.
