[Regeneration of a radial nerve after compression under an osteosynthesis plate]

In approximately 4-13 % of cases plating of the humerus for stabilizing a shaft fracture is complicated by a secondary lesion of the radial nerve. In the majority of cases this is due to intraoperative traction on the nerve. The compression of a radial nerve under an osteosynthesis plate is reported only rarely. This article presents the case of a spontaneous regeneration of a radial nerve despite ongoing compression by the surgical implant after compression plating of a humeral shaft fracture. Recommendations are given to avoid such an iatrogenic lesion of the radial nerve, which most commonly is not spontaneously reversible.