Natural history of neonatal radial nerve palsy

Abstract

This retrospective case series analysed the presentation, risk factors, and natural history of neonatal radial nerve palsy. A total of 28 patients with a diagnosis of radial nerve palsy and aged less than 12 months at original presentation were identified at our institution. Patient demographics, relevant risk factors and physical examination findings were recorded, including active movement scale scores to track neurological recovery over time. In total, 18 patients had a history of prolonged or difficult delivery and 15 patients had skin markings consistent with fat necrosis of the posterolateral arm as anticipated from previous studies. Significant improvement was seen between active movement scale scores at the first and final visits ( p < 0.001). Of the 26 patients with active movement scale scores available at the last visit, all had neurologic resolution by the age of 9 months. Excellent outcomes and complete resolution can be expected in newborns with radial nerve palsy. Level of evidence IV