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Ulnar neuropathy in surgical patients
M A Warner1, D O Warner, J Y Matsumoto
1Perioperative Outcomes Group (Department of Anesthesiology), Mayo Medical School, Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. warner.mark@mayo.edu
Anesthesiology
|January 23, 1999
Summary
Perioperative ulnar neuropathy is an infrequent complication following noncardiac surgery, occurring in 0.5% of patients. This condition primarily affects men aged 50-75 and may be linked to anatomical differences.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Perioperative ulnar neuropathy is a potential complication of surgical procedures.
- Understanding its incidence and natural course is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and natural history of perioperative ulnar neuropathy.
- To identify risk factors and clinical characteristics associated with this condition.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 1,502 adult patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.
- Preoperative and postoperative neurologic assessments, including daily evaluations and telephone follow-ups.
- Long-term follow-up for patients who developed ulnar neuropathy.
Main Results:
- Ulnar neuropathy occurred in 0.5% of patients, predominantly in men aged 50-75.
- Symptoms typically appeared 2-7 days post-surgery, manifesting as mild sensory deficits in most cases.
- While four patients recovered within 6 weeks, three had persistent symptoms at 2 years.
Conclusions:
- Perioperative ulnar neuropathy is rare but can have long-term consequences.
- Male gender and age (50-75 years) are identified as potential risk factors.
- Anatomical variations in the ulnar nerve may contribute to its occurrence in surgical patients.