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Postoperative ulnar-nerve palsy. Are there predisposing factors?
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|February 1, 1987
Summary
Postoperative ulnar-nerve palsy (0.26%) occurred in a study of 6,538 patients. Findings suggest subclinical ulnar neuropathy may predispose individuals to this condition after surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Postoperative ulnar-nerve palsy is a recognized complication.
- The exact etiology remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes of postoperative ulnar-nerve palsy.
- To identify potential predisposing factors.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 6,538 patients undergoing surgery.
- Follow-up during surgery and convalescence.
- Ulnar nerve-conduction studies performed on affected patients.
Main Results:
- Seventeen patients (0.26%) developed ulnar-nerve palsy postoperatively.
- Nerve-conduction studies revealed abnormal slowing in both nerves of affected patients.
- This suggests a potential predisposition to ulnar neuropathy.
Conclusions:
- Many patients may have pre-existing subclinical ulnar neuropathy.
- Surgical procedures may unmask or exacerbate this underlying condition.
- This highlights the importance of considering pre-existing nerve conditions.