[The supinator syndrome. Study of the course in 20 patients and therapeutic recommendations]

Between 1972 and 1984, 20 cases of the supinator syndrome were examined with clinical and electrophysiological methods in our clinic. In 12 cases we found an idiopathic supinator syndrome in the strict sense and in 8 cases a traumatic lesion of the r. profundus of the radial nerve. We carried out follow-up studies in most of the patients. From these findings we attempt to derive guidelines for treatment. An absolute indication for operative revision in our opinion is present only in the case of complete transsection by trauma. Otherwise, the spontaneous course can be observed. The operative results in idiopathic cases are poor; it seems to be purposeless to operate patients who have a paresis for a long time. Therefore, the decision for or against an operative intervention has to be made soon after the diagnosis is secured.