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Proximal neuropathy in Colles' fracture
1Department of Neurology, New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, New York 10021, USA.
Summary
Colles' fracture can rarely cause nerve damage extending to the proximal forearm, affecting median, ulnar, and radial nerves. Increased awareness is key to diagnosing these rare peripheral nerve injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Colles' fractures are common wrist injuries.
- Peripheral nerve injuries are typically localized to the fracture site.
Observation:
- Two patients with Colles' fractures presented with unusual proximal forearm neuropathies.
- Nerve involvement extended as far as the elbow.
Findings:
- One patient experienced median, ulnar, and radial nerve mononeuropathies.
- The other patient had median and ulnar nerve mononeuropathies.
Implications:
- Proximal nerve involvement following Colles' fracture is possible.
- Increased clinical awareness can improve the diagnosis of these rare nerve lesions.