THE RELEVANCE is determined by the significant frequency of iatrogenic injuries of the radial nerve during internal osteosynthesis of the humerus, long-lasting functional disorders, a large number of unsatisfactory results, as well as the lack of a unified approach to diagnosis and treatment.MATERIAL AND METHODS. The causes of iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve were studied in 22 patients who underwent internal fixation during fractures of the humeral diaphysis. The ultrasound examination was used to visualize the radial nerve. In 13 patients (59.1%), a pathogenetic treatment was used, including medication, physical and mechanical therapy.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. In plate osteosynthesis, a greater number of iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve was observed than during osteosynthesis with screws. The ultrasound method had high diagnostic values to determine the continuity of the nerve trunk and identify conflicts with solid structures. The use of pathogenetic therapy of neuropathy led to a more rapid clinical recovery of limb function.CONCLUSION. To prevent iatrogenic injuries and avoid gross manipulations, the access with sufficient visualization of the radial nerve is necessary in plate osteosynthesis and distal blocking outside the projection of the radial nerve is necessary in intramedullary osteosynthesis. Indications for early revision after iatrogenic damage are neurotmesis and a nerve conflict with bone fragments or an implant.

Introduction. In the early hours and days after traumatic or surgical event it is essential to determine type of peripheral nerve injury accurately.Objective. To assess performance of diagnostic ultrasound (US) in patients with traumatic and intraoperative nerve injuries during the early hours and days after trauma or surgery.Materials and methods. 106 patients with clinical signs of extremity nerve injuries were included into the study. A total of 113 limb nerves were investigated with US.Results. US sensitivity in the detection of complete nerve rupture was 100% (95% CI: 39,8-100%), specificity — 99,0% (94,7100,0%); for nerve compression with the bone sensitivity was 100% (66,4-100%), specificity — 100% (96,3-100%); for nerve compression with fixation devices sensitivity was 100% (66,4-100%), specificity — 100% (15,8-100%) и 100% (88,4-100%).Conclusion. Nerve US is a reliable method for the evaluation of extremity nerve injury, the method can be recommended for use in the early hours and days after trauma or surgery.

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