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Isolated Fascial Compression of the Recurrent Motor Branch of the Median Nerve: A Case Report

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HAND

Abstract

Isolated compression of the recurrent motor branch (RMB) of the median nerve is not commonly reported. This report deals with a case of fascial band compression of the RMB of the median nerve with sparing of the sensory portion of the nerve in a single patient. The episode was precipitated by the subject was clearing fallen trees after an ice storm. Symptoms occurred only in the left, nondominant hand of the patient, a 43-year-old invasive cardiologist. He presented within weeks of symptom onset, but marked clinical and electrodiagnostic abnormalities of the branch were already present. Timely decompression after evaluation led to a successful clinical outcome, with restoration of full strength on manual muscle testing by 6 months postoperatively and marked electrodiagnostic improvements as well by 11 months after operation. Final clinical examination 16 months after operation showed thenar muscle bulk and strength well maintained.

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Acknowledgement

The author would like to thank M. David Redmond, MD, Cindy Arnot, R. NCST, and Lynn Williams, R. EDT, for the superb electrodiagnostic care the patient received.

The author would like to thank Joe Crisler, OTRL for the superb occupational therapy care the patient received. Todd Hoover, PT of Sumter Physical Therapy for superb care of this patient.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Louisville Arm and Hand, Norton Healthcare, 315 East Broadway Suite 195, Louisville, KY, 40202-1703, USA

    David E. Tate Jr

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  1. David E. Tate Jr
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Correspondence to David E. Tate Jr.

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Tate, D.E. Isolated Fascial Compression of the Recurrent Motor Branch of the Median Nerve: A Case Report. HAND 1, 102–105 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-006-9006-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-006-9006-2

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