Anatomic Landmarks for the Radial Tunnel
Author Information
Author(s): Hazani Ron MD, Nitin J. MD, Mowlavi Arian MD, Neumeister Michael MD, Lee W.P. Andrew MD, Wilhelmi Bradon J. MD
Primary Institution: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY
Hypothesis
Can anatomic landmarks facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of radial tunnel syndrome?
Conclusion
The anatomic landmarks of the radial head and the mid-width of the dorsal wrist can be used to predict the course and location of the posterior interosseous nerve.
Supporting Evidence
- The posterior interosseous nerve can be difficult to locate within the radial tunnel.
- Anatomic landmarks can aid in the injection and decompression of the radial nerve.
- The DBRN was found to exit the supinator muscle at an average distance of 7.4 cm distal to the proximal radial head.
Takeaway
Doctors can use specific points on the arm to find a nerve that can cause pain in the elbow, making it easier to treat.
Methodology
Dissection of 18 fresh cadaveric arms to identify anatomic landmarks.
Limitations
The study is based on cadaveric dissections, which may not fully represent living anatomy.
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