Nerve compression lesions of the upper extremity. A clinical and experimental review

M. Spinner, P. S. Spencer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

84 Scopus citations

Abstract

The first part of this review covers the key clinical features of both common and less common entrapment syndromes of the upper extremity. Attention is directed toward syndromes resulting from mechanical factors: compression, traction, and friction which operate to varying degrees in attenuated fibro osseous tunnels, at sites of nerve passage between anatomical compartments, in association with anatomical anomalies of the arm, with the Volkmann's process, following bone and joint fracture and dislocation and in some systemic diseases. Compound entrapment lesions can occur. The second part of the review brings into focus the morphologic aspects of clinical and experimental nerve compression lesions. The Seddon and Sunderland classification of degrees of nerve injury are compared in the light of contemporary knowledge of nerve fiber ultrastructure in normal nerves and during degeneration and regeneration. Consideration is given to the fate of the proximal stump and the formation and ultrastructure of traumatic neuromas. Some unexplained focal neuromuscular syndromes which may or may not be due to a localized nerve entrapment offer interesting opportunities for speculation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)46-67
Number of pages22
JournalCLIN.ORTHOP.
VolumeNo.104
StatePublished - 1974
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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