Neurophysiological study of the radial nerve variant in the innervation of the dorsomedial surface of the hand

Abstract

It is important to know the characteristics of this variant in order to avoid diagnostic errors and to prevent iatrogenic lesions in surgery performed on the dorsum of the wrist. Muscle Nerve 58: 732-735, 2018.

Anatomical variations of the superficial branch of the radial nerve and the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve: A detailed electrophysiological study

“…In contrast to previous studies, 5‐14 an all‐radial supply to the dorsum of the hand was not found in our study. Although there are various possible reasons for the discrepancy, racial difference may be a factor.…”

“…[4][5][6] Furthermore, the SBRN territories most commonly seen in our study are comparable to the sensory territory delineated by microneurography. 15 Because sensory innervation was shared by the SBRN and In contrast to previous studies, [5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14] an all-radial supply to the dorsum of the hand was not found in our study. Although there are various possible reasons for the discrepancy, racial difference may be a factor.…”

“…There have been several electrodiagnostic studies in which the innervation pattern of the dorsal hand was examined 10‐14 . In those studies, when sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) of the DBUN were absent or reduced in amplitude, stimulation was applied over the SBRN.…”

“…6 There have been several electrodiagnostic studies in which the innervation pattern of the dorsal hand was examined. [10][11][12][13][14] In those studies, when sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) of the DBUN were absent or reduced in amplitude, stimulation was applied over the SBRN. As an example, Peterson et al recorded SNAPs from the routine recording site of the DBUN with stimulation of the SBRN at the wrist in 4 (9.1%) of 44 subjects, a finding indicating that the DBUN territory was innervated by the SBRN.…”