Caracterización de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia / Characterization of Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus in Children who Required Surgical Management at a Hospital in Santander, Colombia / Caracterização das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia

Introducción. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características sociodemográficas, tratamiento y complicaciones pre y posquirúrgicas de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero distal en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia. Metodología. Se trata de un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con 58 pacientes que cumplieron los siguientes criterios de inclusión: edad entre 3 a 14 años, fracturas supracondíleas de manejo quirúrgico; como criterios de exclusión se tomó: antecedente de enfermedad ósea o neurológica previa y fracturas de más de 7 días de evolución. Para las variables continuas se usó medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, las categóricas en porcentajes y frecuencias absolutas. Resultados. La edad media de presentación fue de 6.2 años, el principal mecanismo de trauma fue caídas de altura con un 96.5%. El 65.5% provenía de zonas urbanas. El 13.8% se asoció con fracturas de antebrazo, y el 3.4% de epitróclea. La fijación se realizó en un 75% con técnica cruzada y un 17.2% se asoció con lesión iatrogénica del nervio ulnar. Discusión. En el estudio no se informaron lesiones vasculares; sin embargo, se documentó una alta prevalencia de lesión neurológica con la fijación medial, similar a lo descrito en la literatura (1.4%-17.7%); algunos autores describen técnicas que disminuyen estas lesiones hasta en un 0%. Conclusión. Las características sociodemográficas de nuestra población coinciden con la estadística publicada mundialmente; la principal complicación fue la lesión iatrogénica nervio ulnar, que se puede disminuir con un uso racional del pin medial y con el empleo de técnicas que busquen rechazar directamente el nervio. Palabras clave: Fracturas del Húmero; Fijación Interna de Fracturas; Clavos Ortopédicos; Codo; Niño; Nervio Cubital.

Introduction. The objective of this study was to describe sociodemographic characteristic, treatment, and pre- and post-surgical complications of supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children who required surgical management at a hospital in Santander, Colombia. Methodology. This was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study involving 58 patients who met inclusion criteria: age between 3 and 14 years old, supracondylar fractures with surgical management; exclusion criteria include previous bone or neurological illness and fractures with more than 7 days of evolution. Central tendency and dispersion measures were used for continuous variables, and categorical variables in percentages and absolute frequencies. Results. The average age at presentation was 6.2 years old, the main mechanism of trauma was fall from height (96.5%). 65.5% came from urban zones. The 13.8% were associated with forearm fractures, and 3.4% with epitrochlear fractures. Pinning was performed at 75% with crossed technique and 17.2% were associated with iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury. Discussion. Study didn't inform vascular injuries. However, a high prevalence of neurological injury with medial pinning was documented, similar to that describe in the literature (1.4%-17.7%); some author described techniques that reduce these lesions by 0%. Conclusion. The sociodemographic characteristics of our population match with worldwide published statistics; the main complication was iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury, which can be reduced with the rational use of medial pin and with the application of techniques that seek to directly spare the nerve. Keywords: Humeral Fractures; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Bone Nails; Elbow; Child; Ulnar Nerve.

Introdução. O objetivo do estudo foi descrever as características sociodemográficas, o tratamento e as complicações pré e pós-cirúrgicas das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero distal em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia. Metodologia. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal com 58 pacientes que atenderam aos seguintes critérios de inclusão: idade entre 3 e 14 anos, fraturas supracondilianas tratadas cirurgicamente. Os critérios de exclusão foram: histórico de doença óssea ou neurológica prévia e fraturas com duração superior a 7 dias de evolução. Para variáveis contínuas foram utilizadas medidas de tendência central e dispersão, as categóricas em percentuais e frequências absolutas. Resultados. A média de idade de apresentação foi de 6.2 anos, o principal mecanismo de trauma foi a queda de altura com 96.5%. 65.5% vieram de áreas urbanas. 13.8% estavam associados a fraturas de antebraço e 3.4% a epitróclea. A fixação foi realizada em 75% com técnica cruzada e 17.2% esteve associada à lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar. Discussão. Nenhuma lesão vascular foi relatada no estudo. No entanto, foi documentada alta prevalência de lesão neurológica com fixação medial, semelhante à descrita na literatura (1.4%-17.7%). Alguns autores descrevem técnicas que reduzem essas lesões em até 0%. Conclusão. As características sociodemográficas da nossa população coincidem com as estatísticas publicadas mundialmente. A principal complicação foi a lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar, que pode ser reduzida com o uso racional do pino medial e com o uso de técnicas que buscam rejeitar diretamente o nervo. Palavras-chave: Fraturas do Úmero; Fixação Interna de Fraturas; Pinos Ortopédicos; Cotovelo; Criança; Nervo Ulnar

Ramo comunicante entre los nervios mediano y ulnar en el antebrazo humano / Communicanting branch between median and ulnar nerves in the human forearm

El ramo comunicante mediano-ulnar (RCMU) es la conexión que se origina del nervio mediano (NM) o alguno de sus ramos, para unirse al nervio ulnar (NU) en el antebrazo humano. Cuando este RCMU está presente, determina una prevalencia que oscila entre un 8 % y un 32 %, de tal manera los axones del NM se trasladen al NU, modificando la inervación habitual de los músculos de la mano. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia, biometría, topografía y relaciones anatómicas del RCMU. Adicionalmente, se estableció la coexistencia de otras conexiones entre los NM y NU en el antebrazo y la mano. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, cuantitativo, no experimental y transeccional. Disecamos 30 antebrazos humanos de individuos adultos, pertenecientes al programa de donación cadavérica de la Pontificia Universidad Católicade Chile. Las muestras estaban fijadas en formalina y a 4 °C. El RCMU se presentó en 5 casos (17 %). De estos ramos, tres surgieron del nervio interóseo anterior (NIA) (60 %) y dos (40 %) del ramo que el NM aporta a los músculos superficiales del compartimiento anterior del antebrazo. Estos se clasificaron de acuerdo a la literatura, así el tipo Ic se presentó en tres casos (60 %), y el tipo Ia en dos (40 %). La longitud promedio del RCMU fue de 53,9 mm. El origen del RCMU se ubicó en el tercio proximal y la conexión de este con el NU se estableció en el tercio medio del antebrazo. En tres casos (60 %) se observó la coexistencia del RCMU y una conexión entre los ramos digitales palmares comunes. Estos hallazgos confirman que el RCMU mayoritariamente se extiende entre el nervio interóseo anterior y el NU, y su presencia podría modificar la distribución nerviosa de la mano.

SUMMARY: The median-ulnar communicating branch (MUCB) is the communication that originates from the median nerve (MN) or one of its branches, to join the ulnar nerve (UN) in the human forearm. With a prevalence that oscillates between 8% and 32%, when this MUCB is present, it establishes that axons from the MN move to the UN, modifying the normal innervation of the muscles of the hand. Our aim was to determine the prevalence, biometry and topography and anatomical relationships of the MUCB. Additionally, the coexistence of this MUCB with other connections between the MN and UN was established. A descriptive, quantitative, non experimental and transectional study was conducted. Thirty adult human forearms belonging to the cadaveric donation program of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile were dissected. The samples were fixed in formalin and stored at 4 °C. The MUCB appeared in 5 cases (17%). Of these, three originated from the anterior interosseous nerve (60%) and two (40%) arose from the branch that the MN gives it to the superficial muscles of the anterior compartment of the forearm. These were classified according to the literature consulted, obtaining that Group Ic occurred in three cases (60%), and Group Ia in two (40%). The average MUCB length was 53.9 mm. The origin of the MUCB was on average 21% of the length of the forearm from the biepicondylar line. The connection of this MUCB with the UN was located on average at 44% from this line. In three cases (60%) the coexistence of the MUCB and a connection between the common palmar digital nerves was observed. These findings confirm that the RCMU is generally established between the anterior interosseous nerve of forearm and NU, and its presence could modify the nerve distribution of the hand.

Anatomical and histomorphometric study of the ulnar nerve at the wrist / Estudio anatómico e histomorfométrico del nervio ulnar en la muñeca

SUMMARY: The ulnar nerve (UN) is the main nerve responsible for innervation of the intrinsic musculature of the hand. It is of great importance to have a deep anatomical knowledge of the UN. The aim of this study is to enrich the knowledge of the UN anatomy at the wrist and provide useful reference information for clinical and surgical applications. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 44 upper limbs of fresh cadavers were evaluated. The UN, the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve (SBUN), and the deep branch of the ulnar nerve (DBUN) were evaluated. Morphometric variables were measured using a digital caliper, and samples of nervous tissue were taken to evaluate the histomorphometry. Before entering the Guyon's canal, the UN had a diameter of 3.2 ± 0.4 mm. In 36 samples (82 %) the UN presented a bifurcation pattern and in the remaining 8 samples (18 %) a trifurcation was shown. The diameter of the DBUN was 1.9 ± 0.33 mm and that of the SBUN was 1.29 ± 0.22 mm. In the bifurcation patterns, the SBUN had a trunk of 5.71 ± 1.53 mm before bifurcating into the common digital nerve (fourth and fifth fingers) and an ulnar digital collateral nerve (fifth finger). The DBUN had an area of 2.84 ± 0.7 mm2 and was made up of 8 ± 1.4 fascicles and 3595 ± 465 axons. The SBUN area was 1.31 ± 0.27 mm2, it was made up of 6 ± 1.1 fascicles and 2856 ± 362 axons. The reported findings allow the hand surgeon to improve his understanding of the clinical signs of patients with UN pathologies at the wrist level and thus achieve greater precision while planning and performing surgical approaches and dissections.

El nervio ulnar (NU) es el principal nervio responsable de la inervación de la musculatura intrínseca de la mano. Es de gran importancia tener un profundo conocimiento anatómico del NU. El objetivo de este estudio fue enriquecer el conocimiento de la anatomía del NU en la muñeca y proporcionar información de referencia útil para aplicaciones clínicas y quirúrgicas. En este estudio descriptivo transversal se evaluaron 44 miembros superiores de cadáveres frescos. Se evaluó el NU, el ramo superficial del nervio ulnar (RSNU) y el ramo profundo del nervio ulnar (RPNU). Las variables morfométricas se midieron con un caliper digital y se tomaron muestras del nervio para evaluar la histomorfometría. Antes de ingresar al canal del nervio ulnar (canal Guyon), el ONU tenía un diámetro de 3,2 ± 0,4 mm. En 36 muestras (82 %) el ONU presentó un patrón de bifurcación y en las 8 muestras restantes (18 %) se presentó una trifurcación. El diámetro del RPNU fue de 1,9 ± 0,33 mm y el del RSNU de 1,29 ± 0,22 mm. En los patrones de bifurcación, el RSNU presentó un tronco de 5,71 ± 1,53 mm antes de bifurcarse en el nervio digital común (cuarto y quinto dedo) y un nervio digital colateral ulnar (quinto dedo). El RPNU tenía un área de 2,84 ± 0,7 mm2 y estaba formado por 8 ± 1,4 fascículos y 3595 ± 465 axones. El área del RSNU fue de 1,31 ± 0,27 mm2, estaba formado por 6 ± 1,1 fascículos y 2856 ± 362 axones. Los hallazgos reportados permiten al cirujano de mano mejorar su comprensión de los signos clínicos de los pacientes con patologías del NU a nivel de la muñeca y así lograr una mayor precisión en la planificación y realización de abordajes y disecciones quirúrgicas.

Diagnostic value of F wave changes in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth1A and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze and compare the characteristics and causes of F wave changes in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth1A (CMT1A) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).@*METHODS@#Thirty patients with CMT1A and 30 patients with CIDP were enrolled in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2012 to December 2018. Their clinical data, electrophysiological data(nerve conduction velocity, F wave and H reflex) and neurological function scores were recorded. Some patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging of brachial plexus and lumbar plexus, and the results were analyzed and compared.@*RESULTS@#The average motor conduction velocity (MCV) of median nerve was (21.10±10.60) m/s in CMT1A and (31.52±12.46) m/s in CIDP. There was a significant difference between the two groups (t=-6.75, P < 0.001). About 43.3% (13/30) of the patients with CMT1A did not elicit F wave in ulnar nerve, which was significantly higher than that of the patients with CIDP (4/30, 13.3%), χ2=6.65, P=0.010. Among the patients who could elicit F wave, the latency of F wave in CMT1A group was (52.40±17.56) ms and that in CIDP group was (42.20±12.73) ms. There was a significant difference between the two groups (t=2.96, P=0.006). The occurrence rate of F wave in CMT1A group was 34.6%±39%, and that in CIDP group was 70.7%±15.2%. There was a significant difference between the two groups (t=-5.13, P < 0.001). The MCV of median nerve in a patient with anti neurofascin 155 (NF155) was 23.22 m/s, the latency of F wave was 62.9-70.7 ms, and the occurrence rate was 85%-95%. The proportion of brachial plexus and lumbar plexus thickening in CMT1A was 83.3% (5/6) and 85.7% (6/7), respectively. The proportion of brachial plexus and lumbar plexus thickening in the CIDP patients was only 25.0% (1/4, 2/8). The nerve roots of brachial plexus and lumbar plexus were significantly thickened in a patient with anti NF155 antibody.@*CONCLUSION@#The prolonged latency of F wave in patients with CMT1A reflects the homogenous changes in both proximal and distal peripheral nerves, which can be used as a method to differentiate the CIDP patients characterized by focal demyelinating pathology. Moreover, attention should be paid to differentiate it from the peripheral neuropathy caused by anti NF155 CIDP. Although F wave is often used as an indicator of proximal nerve injury, motor neuron excitability, anterior horn cells, and motor nerve myelin sheath lesions can affect its latency and occurrence rate. F wave abnormalities need to be comprehensively analyzed in combination with the etiology, other electrophysiological results, and MRI imaging.

Application of ulnar nerve diameter changes examined by HRUS in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the value of high-resolution ultrasound the diagnosis and prognosis of cubital tunnel syndrome.@*METHODS@#From January 2018 to June 2019, 47 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome were treated with ulnar nerve release and anterior subcutaneous transposition. There were 41 males and 6 females, aged from 27 to 73 years old. There were 31 cases on the right, 15 cases on the left, and 1 case on both sides. The diameter of ulnar nerve was measured by high-resolution ultrasound pre-and post-operatively, and measured directly during the operation. The recovery status of the patients was evaluated by the trial standard of ulnar nerve function assessment, and the satisfaction of the patients was assessed.@*RESULTS@#All the 47 cases were followed up for an average of 12 months and the incisions healed well. The diameter of ulnar nerve at the compression level was (0.16±0.04) cm pre-operatively, and the diameter of ulnar nerve was (0.23±0.04) cm post-operatively. The evaluation of ulnar nerve function:excellent in 16 cases, good in 18 cases and fair in 13 cases. Twelve months post-operatively, 28 patients were satisfied, 10 patients were general and 9 patients were dissatisfied.@*CONCLUSION@#The preoperative examination of ulnar nerve by high-resolution ultrasound is consistent with the intuitive measurement during operation, and the result of postoperative examination of ulnar nerve by high-resolution ultrasound is consistent with follow-up results. High-resolution ultrasound is an effective auxiliary method for the diagnosis and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome.

Evaluación de las relaciones entre la rama palmar profunda de la arteria ulnar y el ramo profundo del nervio ulnar en la región palmar / Evaluation of the relationship between the deep palmar branch of ulnar artery and the deep branch of the ulnar nerve in the palmar region

RESUMEN: Nos motivó esta presentación los hallazgos observados en la sala de disección sobre las relaciones de la rama palmar profunda de la arteria ulnar y el ramo profundo del nervio ulnar, las diferentes disposiciones de esta rama, el cruzamiento, cuando existe, entre ambos elementos y las pocas referencias sobre el tema, todo con miras a favorecer el abordaje profundo de la palma de la mano y contribuir al conocimiento del área en donde se practican las neurotomías del ramo profundo del nervio ulnar y/ o sus ramas.

SUMMARY: We are motivated by the findings observed in the dissection room on the relationship between the deep palmar branch of ulnar artery and the deep branch of ulnar nerve, the different dispositions of this branch, the crossing, when it exists, between both elements and the few references on the subject, all with a view to favoring the deep approach to the palm and contributing to the knowledge of the area where neurotomies of the deep branch of ulnar nerve and/or its branches are performed.

Clinical Investigation of Key Parameter Range of AMG Muscle Relaxant Monitor / 中国医疗器械杂志

The accelerometry(AMG) muscle relaxant monitor is the most widely used quantitative muscle relaxant monitor to assess the degree of neuromuscular at present. In this study, the ulnar nerve was stimulated by using train of four stimulation(TOF) mode of the AMG muscle relaxant monitor, and the movement of the adductor pollicis muscle was monitored. In this way, the distribution range of key parameters (acceleration peak value, response time, and TOF ratio) of the adductor pollicis muscle during the use of muscle relaxant in clinical practice is analyzed and will provide a practical basis for the development and improvement of the muscle relaxant monitor.

Superficial communication between ulnar and media nerves in the hand: an anatomical study / Comunicación superficial entre los nervios ulnar y mediano de la mano: un estudio anatómico

SUMMARY: The objective of this study was to characterize the communication between ulnar and the median nerve in the superficial palmar region from a sample of mestizo-raced population predominant in Latin America. The superficial palmar regions of 53 fresh cadaveric specimens were evaluated, whom of which underwent necropsy procedure at the Institute of Legal Medicine. Dissection was performed by planes until visualizing the presence of the Communicating Branch (CB) between the digital branches of the ulnar nerve (UN) and the median nerve (MN). Qualitative and morphometric evaluation of the CB was carried out. A CB were observed in 82/ 106 (77.4 %) of the cadaveric specimens studied, of which, 38/53 (71.7 %) were bilateral, 15/53 (28.3 %) unilateral; this being a statistically significant difference (p <0.002). Oblique trajectory of the CB between the fourth and third common digital nerve was observed in 70 (85.4 %) specimens, while the CB with transverse trajectory was found in 7 (8.5 %) regions and in a plexiform form in 5 (6.1 %) cases. The length of the CB was 20.2 ± 5.1 mm and the distances from the upper edge of the flexor retinaculum to the proximal and distal points of the CB were 25 ± 6 mm and 37.4 ± 8.3 mm respectively. The anatomical characteristics of the CB patterns, as well as the morphometric CB findings and their points of reference from the carpal flexor retinaculum, make it possible to delimit a safe area of surgical access in the first-fifth proximal of the palmar region, during the surgical approach of carpal tunnel syndrome.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar la comunicación entre los nervios ulnar y mediano en la región palmar superficial a partir de una muestra de población de raza mestiza predominante en América Latina. Se evaluaron las regiones palmares superficiales de 53 especímenes cadavéricos frescos, los cuales fueron sometidos procedimiento de necropsia en el Instituto de Medicina Legal. La disección se realizó por planos hasta visualizar la presencia del ramo comunicante (RC) entre los ramos digitales palmares del nervio ulnar (NU) y del nervio mediano (NM). Se realizó evaluación cualitativa y morfométrica del RC, observándose RC en 82/106 (77,4 %) de los especímenes cadavéricos estudiados, de los cuales 38/53 (71,7 %) eran bilaterales, 15/53 (28,3 %) unilaterales; siendo esta una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p <0,002). Se observó trayectoria oblicua del RC entre el cuarto y tercer nervio digital palmar común en 70 muestras (85,4 %), mientras que el RC con trayectoria transversal se encontró en 7 casos (8,5 %) y en forma plexiforme en 5 casos (6,1 %). La longitud del RC fue de 20,2 ± 5,1 mm y las distancias desde el margen superior del retináculo flexor hasta los puntos proximal y distal del RC fueron de 25 ± 6 mm y 37,4 ± 8,3 mm, respectivamente. Así, los hallazgos morfométricos del RC y sus puntos de referencia, desde el retináculo flexor, permiten delimitar una zona segura de acceso quirúrgico en el primer-quinto proximal de la región palmar, durante el abordaje quirúrgico del síndrome del túnel carpiano.

Ulnar two-point discrimination following endoscopic carpal tunnel release / La liberación endoscópica del túnel carpiano y la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos del nervio cubital

Abstract Carpal tunnel syndrome is median nerve symptomatic compression at the level of the wrist, characterized by increased pressure within the carpal tunnel and decreased nerve function at the level. Carpal tunnel release decreases pressure in Guyon's canal, via open techniques, with symptom and two-point discrimination improvement in the ulnar nerve distribution. We hypothesize that endoscopic carpal tunnel release improves two-point discrimination in the ulnar nerve distribution as well. This study includes 143 patients who underwent endoscopic carpal tunnel release between April 2016 to June 2019 in a single, community-based teaching hospital. A comprehensive retrospective chart review was performed on patient demographics, preand post-operative two-point discrimination test results, and complications. The effects of sex, age, and diabetes mellitus in the ulnar and median nerve territories with two-point discrimination tests were analyzed. As well as the differences in two-point discrimination among patient's based on their smoking status. There were significant post operative improvements in both the median (7.7 vs 4.4 mm, p < 0.001) and ulnar (5.7 vs 4.1 mm, p < 0.001) nerve territories. Smoking status, sex, age and diabetes did not significantly affect two-point discrimination outcomes. In conclusion the endoscopic release of the transverse carpal ligament decompresses the carpal tunnel and Guyon's canal, demonstrating improvement in two-point discrimination in both the ulnar and median nerve distributions.

Resumen El síndrome de túnel carpiano es la compresión sintomática del nervio mediano al nivel de la muñeca. Se caracteriza por un aumento de presión dentro del túnel y una disminución de la función del nervio a ese nivel. La liberación del túnel carpiano descomprime el canal de Guyon, con mejoría sintomática y en la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos en la distribución del nervio cubital. Hipotetizamos que la liberación endoscópica mejora de la misma manera en la distribución del nervio cubital. Este trabajo incluye 143 pacientes que tuvieron liberación endoscópica del túnel carpiano entre abril del 2016 y junio del 2019 en un hospital Universitario de la comunidad. Se evaluaron retrospectivamente las historias clínicas para los datos demográficos, los resultados pre y post quirúrgicos en la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos y complicaciones. Se analizaron los efectos del sexo, edad, tabaco y diabetes en los resultados de la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos para los nervios cubital y mediano. Hubo mejoría significativa post quirúrgica en la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos para los nervios mediano (7.7 vs 4.4 mm, p < 0.001) y cubital (5.7 vs 4.1 mm, p < 0.001). Fumadores, sexo, edad, y diabetes no afectaron de forma significativa. Concluimos que la liberación endoscópica del ligamento transverso del carpo descomprime el túnel carpiano y el canal de Guyon con mejoría en la prueba de discriminación de dos puntos para los nervios cubital y mediano.

Anastomosis Patterns between the Median and Ulnar Nerves in the Upper Limbs

There are four types of anastomoses between themedian and ulnar nerves in the upper limbs. It consists of crossings of axons that produce changes in the innervation of the upper limbs, mainly in the intrinsic muscles of the hand. The forearm has two anatomical changes ­ Martin-Gruber: branch originating close to the median nerve joining distally to the ulnar nerve; and Marinacci: branch originating close to the ulnar nerve and distally joining the median nerve. The hand also has two types of anastomoses, which are more common, and sometimes considered a normal anatomical pattern ­ Berrettini: Connection between the common digital nerves of the ulnar and median nerves; and Riche-Cannieu: anastomosis between the recurrent branch of the median nerve and the deep branch of the ulnar nerve. Due to these connection patterns, musculoskeletal disorders and neuropathies can be misinterpreted, and nerve injuries during surgery may occur, without the knowledge of these anastomoses. Therefore, knowledge of them is essential for the clinical practice. The purpose of the present review is to provide important information about each type of anastomosis of the median and ulnar nerves in the forearm and hand.

Determining the utility of minimum F-wave latency alterations in the electrodiagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow / Determinação da utilidade das alterações mínimas da latência da onda F no eletrodiagnóstico da neuropatia ulnar do cotovelo

ABSTRACT Background: Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy. There is little information about the application of F-wave studies for evaluation of UNE. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of minimum F-wave (F-min) latency alterations by comparing this with nerve conduction analyses in UNE-suspected patients. Methods: Ninety-four UNE-suspected patients were admitted to this study. Sensory and motor nerve conduction and F-wave analyses on the median and ulnar nerves were performed on both upper extremities. Results: A total of 188 upper extremities of 94 patients were examined. Their mean age was 41.4±12.9 years, and 69 patients were female (73.4%). The mean ulnar-nerve across-elbow motor conduction velocity (MCV) in the affected arms was significantly slower than the velocity in healthy arms. The mean ulnar-nerve F-min latencies were significantly longer in the affected arms. Fifty-one patients were electrophysiologically diagnosed as presenting UNE (54.2%). Significantly slower mean ulnar-nerve across-elbow MCV, longer mean ulnar-nerve F-min latency and longer distal onset latency were detected in UNE-positive arms. Lastly, patients who were symptomatic but had normal nerve conduction were evaluated separately. Only the mean ulnar F-min latency was significantly longer in this group, compared with the healthy arms. Conclusion: Our study confirmed the utility of F-min latency measurements in the electrodiagnosis of UNE. F-wave latency differences can help in making an early diagnosis to provide better treatment options.

RESUMO Introdução: A neuropatia ulnar do cotovelo (NUC) é a segunda neuropatia por encarceramento mais comum. Existem poucas informações sobre a aplicação dos estudos da onda F para avaliação da NUC. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o valor diagnóstico das alterações mínimas de latência da onda F (F-min), comparando-as com análises de condução nervosa em pacientes com suspeita de NUC. Métodos: Noventa e quatro pacientes com suspeita de NUC foram admitidos neste estudo. A condução nervosa sensitiva e motora e as análises da onda F nos nervos mediano e ulnar foram realizadas em ambas as extremidades superiores. Resultados: Um total de 188 membros superiores de 94 pacientes foi examinado. A média de idade foi 41,4±12,9 anos e 69 pacientes eram do sexo feminino (73,4%). A velocidade de condução motora média do nervo ulnar através do cotovelo (VCM) nos braços afetados foi significativamente mais lenta do que a velocidade em braços saudáveis. As latências médias F-min do nervo ulnar foram significativamente mais longas nos braços afetados. Cinquenta e um pacientes foram diagnosticados eletrofisiologicamente como apresentando NUC (54,2%). Pacientes com presença de NUC tiveram, de forma significativa, detecção de VCM mais lenta no nervo ulnar ao nível do cotovelo, presença de latência mais longa da onda F-mínima no nervo ulnar, bem como latência de início distal mais longa. Por fim, os pacientes sintomáticos, e com condução nervosa normal, foram avaliados separadamente. Apenas a latência da onda F mínima média do nervo ulnar foi significativamente maior neste grupo, em comparação com os braços saudáveis. Conclusão: Nosso estudo confirmou a utilidade das medidas de latência da onda F-mínima no eletrodiagnóstico da NUC. As diferenças de latência da onda F podem ajudar a fazer um diagnóstico precoce para fornecer melhores opções de tratamento.

Seudoaneurisma cubital en un niño. Reporte de un caso y revisión bibliográfica / Ulnar artery pseudoaneurysm in a child. Case report and literature review

Los seudoaneurismas de las arterias de la mano son infrecuentes, se han publicado escasos reportes de casos de adultos, secundarios a un trauma cerrado o abierto. El diagnóstico se confirma mediante ecografía Doppler y otros estudios complementarios. Si no se trata, se puede complicar con trombosis, embolia distal de arterias digitales, lesión nerviosa o necrosis. La cirugía es el tratamiento recomendado y consiste en resección del segmento dañado y ligadura simple, arteriorrafia o reconstrucción vascular con injerto. Los objetivos de este reporte son describir un caso de seudoaneurisma hipotenar secundario a una herida penetrante en un niño y, dada la rareza de este cuadro, revisar, de manera no sistemática, la bibliografía actual. Nivel de evidencia: IV

Pseudoaneurysms of the arteries of the hand are infrequent; few reports of cases in adult patients, secondary to closed or open trauma, have been found in the literature. The diagnosis is confirmed by Doppler ultrasound and other complementary studies. If it is left untreated, the complications include thrombosis, distal digital artery embolism, nerve injury, or necrosis. Surgery is the recommended treatment and consists of resection of the pseudoaneurysm and simple ligation, arteriorraphy, or vascular reconstruction with graft. The objective of this report is to describe a case of hypothenar pseudoaneurysm due to penetrating injury in a pediatric patient, and, due to the rarity of this condition, to conduct a non-systematic review of the current literature. Level of evidence: IV

An accessory abductor digiti minimi as possible risk factor of the median and ulnar nerves compression / Músculo abductor digiti minimi accesorio como posible factor de riesgo de la compresión de los nervios mediano y ulnar

SUMMARY: During routine dissection of a left upper limb of a 68-year-old male human cadaver, an unusual muscle was observed originating from the radius and flexor retinaculum, and continued in the hypothenar region with the muscle belly of the abductor digiti minimi. We checked that it was an accessory abductor digiti minimi (ADM). Its muscular belly was in close relation to the median and ulnar nerves. We review the literature regarding such muscle variations and discuss the potential for compression of the median and ulnar nerves. Although the accessory ADM is usually asymptomatic and only rarely results in nerve compression, it should be taken into account by surgeons when establishing a differential diagnosis in the compression neuropathies of the median and ulnar nerves. An ultrasound scanning can help establish the differential diagnosis.

RESUMEN: Durante la disección de rutina de un miembro superior izquierdo de un cadáver humano masculino de 68 años, se observó un músculo inusual que se originaba en el radio y el retináculo flexor del carpo, y continuuaba en la región hipotenar con el vientre muscular del abductor digiti minimi manus. Verificamos que se trataba del músculo abductor digiti minimi accessorius (ADMA). Su vientre muscular se encontraba en estrecha relación con los nervios mediano y ulnar. Revisamos la literatura sobre variaciones musculares y discutimos la potencial compresión de los nervios mediano y ulnar. Aunque el ADMA suele ser asintomático y rara vez produce compresión nerviosa, los cirujanos deben tenerlo en cuenta al establecer un diagnóstico diferencial en las neuropatías de compresión de los nervios mediano y ulnar. Una ecografía puede ayudar a establecer el diagnóstico diferencial.

Abordaje medial modificado para dislocación codo crónico: un abordaje quirúrgico novedoso con buen resultado funcional / Modified medial approach for chronic elbow dislocation: a novel surgical approach with good functional outcome

Background : Chronic elbow dislocation is defined as untreated elbow dislocation for longer than 2 weeks. Goal of treatment is stable reduction of elbow joint and facilitation of early elbow motion for optimal end result. Known operative methods is the Kocher posterolateral approach.which can accumulate hematome, and longer time needed to identify Ulnar nerve. Therefore, we would like to introduce the new modified medial elbow joint incision approach. Methodology: This study utilized a cross-sectional review of patients with surgical treatment of simple chronic elbow dislocation. Questionnaires were taken using Oxford Elbow Score, Mayo Elbow Performance Index, and Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire to assess current elbow status Result : Utilizing Oxford elbow score, the analytic group score value ranged from 21-46, while control group's score value were 37-42 (P-value <0.0001). Mayo Elbow Performance Index score, from the analytic group, scored ranges from 45 - 82. the control group, a mean value of 85 were scored (P-value <0.0001), the DASH score revealed total mean value of 8.3 in the analytic group, compared to score 6 in the control group (P-value = 0.0468 ). The range of motion is increased in total flexion and extension from both groups(P-value <0.0001) Conclusion: Modified medial elbow approach provides faster method of identifying ulnar nerve, requires less skin flap for closure and less space for blood accumulation. Modified medial elbow approach provides good functional outcome with no complications related to ulnar nerve reported in this study.

Caracterización de la comunicación ulnar-mediano palmar profunda en una muestra con material cadavérico / Characterization of ulnar-median deep palmar communication in a sample with cadaveric material

RESUMEN: La comunicación Ulnar-Mediano Palmar Profunda (CUMPP) es la conexión entre la rama profunda del nervio ulnar (NU) y la rama del nervio mediano (NM) que inerva a los músculos tenares como la cabeza superficial del flexor corto del pulgar. Son escasos los trabajos que se ocupan de esta rama comunicante, y su prevalencia es reportada con una amplia variabilidad, en un rango del 16-77 %. Este estudio no probabilístico, descriptivo, transversal, evaluó la frecuencia y características morfológicas de la CUMPP en 106 manos de especímenes cadavéricos frescos no reclamados, a quienes se les practicó necropsia en el Instituto de Medicina Legal de Bucaramanga (Colombia). Se observó rama comunicante CUMPP en 39 especímenes (50,2 %), de los cuales 12 (44,5 %) fueron bilate- rales, 15 (55,6 %) unilaterales, con predominio unilateral derecho para 9 casos (60 %), sobre el izquierdo de tan solo 6 casos (40 %). No se evidenciaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas con relación al lado de presentación (P=0,223). En 21 especímenes (54 %) se observó el tipo IV; mientras que el tipo I fue encontrado en 4 casos (10 %). El promedio de la longitud de la rama comunicante fue de 24,67 DE 6,46 mm; mientras que la distancia del punto proximal de la CUMPP al surco distal del carpo fue de 41,4 DE 2,6 mm. Nuestros hallazgos no son concordantes con lo reportado en la mayoría de estudios previos. Diversos factores como el tamaño de las muestras, las diferentes metodologías de medición y las expresiones fenotípicas de cada grupo de población evaluado, pueden explicar la variabilidad de la CUMPP.

SUMMARY: Deep Palmar Ulnar-Medium Communication (DPUMC) is the connection between the deep branch of the ulnar nerve (UN) and the median nerve (MN) branch, that innervates the thenar muscles as the superficial head of the short flexor of the thumb. Few studies dealing with this communicating branch, and its prevalence is reported with a wide variability in the range of 16-77 %. This non-probabilistic, descriptive, cross-sectional study; evaluated the frequency and morphological characteristics of DPUMC in 106 hands of fresh unclaimed cadaveric specimens, that underwent necropsy at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Bucaramanga (Colombia). DPUMC communicating branch was observed in 39 specimens (50.2 %), of which 12 (44.5 %) were bilateral, 15 (55.6 %) unilateral, with right unilateral predominance for 9 cases (60 %), on the left of only 6 cases (40 %). There were no statistically significant differences in relation to the presentation side (P = 0.223). In 21 specimens (54%), type IV was observed; while type I was found in 4 cases (10%). The average length of the communicating branch was 24.67 SD 6.46 mm; while the distance from the proximal point of the DPUMC to the distal carpal groove was 41.4 SD 2.6 mm. Our findings are not consistent with those reported in most previous studies. Various factors such as sample size, different measurement methodologies and phenotypic expressions of each population group evaluated can explain the variability of the DPUMC.

Estudio biométrico de la inervación de los músculos lumbricales de la mano humana / Biometric study of the innervation of the lumbrical muscles of the human hand

Los músculos lumbricales (ML) de la mano humana son claves en la propiocepción de la flexoextensión de los dedos. La descripción de su inervación indica que el nervio mediano (NM) inerva los dos ML laterales (L1 y L2) y el nervio ulnar (NU) los ML mediales (L3 y L4). Diversos autores han reportado una gran variabilidad de esta inervación, tanto en los nervios que entregan ramos para estos músculos, como también en la distribución de sus ramos y la presencia de troncos comunes. Por otra parte, el número de ramos que recibe cada ML y los puntos motores (Pm) de los mismos ha sido escasamente reportado. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar número, ubicación y Pm de los ramos destinados a los ML de la mano humana. Así mismo se estableció el patrón de inervación más frecuente. Para ello se utilizaron 24 manos formalizadas, pertenecientes al laboratorio de Anatomía, de la Universidad Andrés Bello, sede Viña del Mar, Chile. Se realizó una disección convencional por planos de profundidad. En todos los casos, el ramo del músculo L1 se originó del nervio digital palmar propio lateral del dedo índice, de la misma forma, en el 100 % el L2 fue inervado por un ramo del nervio digital palmar común del segundo espacio interóseo. En relación a los ML mediales en un 100 % ambos músculos fueron inervados por ramos del ramo profundo del NU (RPNM). En el caso del L3 en un 92 % se presentó un tronco común con el segundo músculo interóseo palmar, asimismo para L4 existió un tronco común con el tercer músculo interóseo palmar en un 79 %. En el 29 %, el L3 presentó una inervación dual. Considerando como referencia la línea biestiloidea, los Pm de los ramos del NM fue de 63,96 mm para L1; 67,91 mm para L2 y 68,69 mm para L3. Para los ramos provenientes del RPNU fue de 69,87 mm para L3 y 69, 21 mm para L4. Los resultados obtenidos aportan al conocimiento anatómico de la inervación de los músculos lumbricales y es de utilidad en procedimientos de neurocirugía que busquen la restauración de la funcionalidad de la mano.

The lumbrical muscles (LM) of the human hand are key in proprioception of flexion and finger extension. The description of its innervation indicates that the median nerve (MN) innervates the two lateral LMs (L1 and L2) and the ulnar nerve (UN) the medial LMs (L3 and L4). Various authors have reported a great variability of this innervation, both in which nerve delivers branches for these muscles, as well as in the distribution of their branches and the presence of common trunks. On the other hand, the number of branches that each LM receives and the motor points (Mp) of these have been scarcely reported. The aim of this study was to determine the number, location and Mp of the branches destined for the LM of the human hand. Likewise, the most frequent innervation pattern was established. For this, 24 formalized hands, belonging to the anatomy laboratory, of the Universidad Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar, Chile, were used. Conventional depth plane dissection was performed. In all cases, the branch of the L1 muscle originated from the palmar digital nerve proper to the index finger, in the same way, in 100 % the L2 was supplied with a branch of the common palmar digital nerve from the second interosseous space. In relation to the LM, in 100 % both muscles were innervated by branches of the deep branch of the UN (DBUN). In the case of L3, 92 % presented a common trunk with the second palmar interosseous muscle. Likewise, in 79 % of the cases, there was a common trunk between the L4 and the third palmar interosseous muscle. In 29 %, the L3 presented a dual innervation. The distance between of the Mp-BEstL was 63.96 mm for L1, 67.91 mm for L2 and 68.69 mm for L3. This distance was 69.87 mm for L3 and 69, 21 mm for L4. The results obtained contribute to the anatomical knowledge of the innervation of the lumbrical muscles and is useful in neurosurgery procedures that seek to restore the functionality of the hand.

Peripheral nerve entrapments - rare causes of a common condition: case series

Compressive syndromes of peripheral nerves both in the upper and lower limbs are part of daily clinical practice; however, the etiological diagnosis can be challenging and impact on the outcome of the patient. We report five cases with rare etiologies of nerve entrapments: one in the lower limb and four in the upper limbs with the final diagnosis made only during the operation. The patients evolved without post-operative complications and had good outcomes. This series includes the first report of sciatic compression by a lipoma in the popliteal fossa, two lipomas one with compression of infraclavicular brachial plexus and another with compressing the posterior interosseous nerve, and two reports of vascular lesions due to blunt traumas, which are also uncommon. This series adds to the literature more hypotheses of differential diagnoses in nerve entrapments, which is fundamental to surgical decisions and pre-operative planning—and perhaps most importantly prevents wrong diagnosis of idiopathic compressions, which would lead to a completely wrong approach and unfavorable outcomes.

Compressive Neuropathy of the Ulnar Nerve in the Hypothenar Region by Lipoma: Case Report

Lipomas are well-defined tumors of the adipose tissue that often occur in the torso or the extremities of adult patients. These tumors usually develop painlessly and insidiously, but theymay compress adjacent structures. The objective of the present study is to describe the case of a 68-year-old female patient with a giant lipoma located at the hypothenar region, with manifestation of compression of the common palmar digital nerves, the ulnar nerve, andthe abductormuscle of theVfinger. Regarding the symptoms, the patient feltmoderate pain in the hypothenar region, with no Tinel sign, and no changes in the motor function or sensibility of the digits innervated by the ulnar nerve. Lipomasmay present a varied range of histological characteristics, and malignant tumors may be a differential diagnosis. An imaging exammay aid in the diagnosis, which is confirmed by a histopathological study. For the present case, as recommended in the literature, a surgical procedure was performed for the resection of the tumor, which resulted in the control of the symptoms.

Luxación del vientre medial del tríceps (Snapping triceps) / Dislocation of the medial triceps belly (Snapping triceps)

Resumen La luxación del vientre medial del tríceps braquial es una rara condición que ocurre sobre el epicóndilo medial durante la flexión activa de este sobre el codo y a menudo está asociada a inestabilidad del nervio cubital, ocasionando síntomas de compresión de este.

Abstract The dislocation of the medial belly of the triceps is a rare occurrence that occurs on the medial epicondyle during active flexion of this over the elbow and is often associated with an instability of the ulnar nerve, causing symptoms of compression of this nerve.