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Arborization of the distal posterior interosseous nerve
1Department of Orthopedics and Physical Rehabilitation, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01655, USA.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|March 1, 1995
Summary
The distal posterior interosseous nerve, crucial for wrist function, shows variable innervation patterns to the radiocarpal, midcarpal, and distal radioulnar joints in cadaveric studies.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
- Nerve Studies
Background:
- The posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) is a key motor nerve in the forearm.
- Understanding its distal branching patterns is vital for surgical procedures and diagnosing nerve entrapment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To meticulously map the anatomical course and intraarticular branching of the distal posterior interosseous nerve.
- To identify its innervation patterns at the radiocarpal, midcarpal, and distal radioulnar joint levels.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of the distal posterior interosseous nerve in 41 cadaveric specimens.
- Intraarticular branches were marked with radioopaque markers and confirmed using fluoroscopy.
- Nerve diameter and location relative to anatomical landmarks were recorded.
Main Results:
- The distal posterior interosseous nerve averaged 1.3 mm in diameter, located radially in the fourth dorsal compartment.
- Branches to the distal radioulnar joint were present in 6 specimens, originating 5 cm proximally.
- Innervation was observed at radiocarpal (27 specimens), midcarpal (35 specimens), and terminal levels (29 specimens), with varied combinations.
Conclusions:
- The distal posterior interosseous nerve exhibits significant anatomical variability in its branching and innervation patterns.
- This detailed anatomical understanding is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of wrist and forearm pathologies involving the PIN.