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Entrapment of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (Wartenberg's syndrome)

A report of 52 cases

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Summary

We have treated 50 patients (52 cases) of entrapment of the sensory branch of the radial nerve in the forearm (Wartenberg syndrome) between January 1988 and July 1992. Conservative treatment achieved 71% excellent and good results. Operation was followed by 74% excellent and good results. The indications for each type of treatment are discussed. De Quervain's disease was associated in 50% of cases, and it is important to diagnose Wartenberg's syndrome before operating on the tenosynovitis in order to avoid unexpected postoperative complications and medicolegal problems.

Résumé

Cinquante patients présentant 52 névrites de la branche sensitive du nerf radial à l'avant-bras (syndrôme de Wartenberg) ont été traités à SOS-Main Strasbourg entre Janvier 1988 et Juillet 1992. Une ténosynovite de de Quervain était associée dans la moitié des cas. Un traitement conservateur, comportant essentiellement une attelle de repos et éventuellement l'injection de stéroïdes, a été utilisé dans 50% des cas, alors que le traitement chirurgical a été nécessaire chez 46% des patients. D'excellents et de bons résultats ont été obtenu dans 71% des cas traités conservativement et dans 74% des cas traités par libération chirurgicale de la compression antibrachiale. En tenant compte de l'histoire naturelle de la maladie et en réalisant un examen clinique attentif, la valeur et le résultat du traitement choisi sont hautement prévisibles. L'identification du syndrôme de Wartenberg avant d'entreprendre le traitement chirurgical d'une tendinite de de Quervain est essentielle. Elle peut prévenir la survenue de complications post-opératoires imprévues et éviter des conséquences médicolégales.

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Lanzetta, M., Foucher, G. Entrapment of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (Wartenberg's syndrome). International Orthopaedics 17, 342–345 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00180450

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