Radial nerve palsy at the elbow following venipuncture-case report

A 29-year-old man sustained a radial nerve lesion when a blood bank technician attempted to cannulate the cephalic vein. Severe pain in the hand and fingers led to removal of the 16-gauge needle. A complete motor and sensory deficit occurred below the elbow. Electrical testing confirmed the neurologic lesion. Complete recovery took 3 months.