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Variations of the ulnar nerve. A surgical perspective
L B Davlin1, T G Bergfield, P L Aulicino
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Eastern Virginia Graduate School of Medicine, Norfolk, Virginia.
Orthopaedic Review
|January 1, 1993
Summary
This review details ulnar nerve variations, explaining confusing clinical findings and reducing accidental nerve injury risks. Understanding these anatomical differences is key for accurate diagnosis and patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Clinical Neuroscience
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- The ulnar nerve is a critical peripheral nerve, and variations in its anatomy are common.
- Anomalous ulnar nerve pathways can lead to misinterpretation of clinical symptoms and electromyographic (EMG) studies.
- Diagnostic challenges arise from atypical presentations caused by these neural variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and document known variations of the ulnar nerve.
- To correlate anatomical variations with potential clinical and electrodiagnostic findings.
- To enhance awareness among clinicians and surgeons regarding ulnar nerve anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review methodology.
- Inclusion of anatomical studies, case reports, and clinical series detailing ulnar nerve variations.
- Synthesis of findings on the prevalence and characteristics of anomalous ulnar nerve structures.
Main Results:
- Identification and categorization of various ulnar nerve anatomical variations.
- Association of specific variations with characteristic clinical signs and EMG abnormalities.
- Documentation of potential consequences of these variations on nerve function.
Conclusions:
- Knowledge of ulnar nerve variations is essential for accurate diagnosis of neuropathies.
- Awareness of these anomalies can prevent iatrogenic injuries during surgical procedures.
- Understanding anatomical variations improves patient outcomes by guiding appropriate clinical and surgical management.