The Electric Shock Sign-An Indication of a Partial Digital Nerve Laceration: A Report of Three Cases

Digital nerves injuries following penetrating injuries, lacerations, and blunt force trauma are common. This case series reports 3 acute cases of partial digital nerve lacerations where patients presented with a similar electric shock-like sensation, the "electric shock sign" radiating distally along the digital nerve distribution. The lancinating pain commonly occurs with active or passive finger extension. All 3 patients underwent operative repair of the digital nerve lacerations. With follow-up ranging between 4.5 months and 11 years, there was complete resolution of their pain.

The electric shock clinical sign can be an indicator of a partial digital nerve laceration.