Compressive Neuropathies of the Radial Nerve

Abstract

Compressive neuropathies of the radial nerve are less common than those of the median and ulnar nerves. The annual incidence of all radial nerve entrapments combined is approximately 0.003 % [1]. Compressive neuropathies of the median and ulnar nerves occur 100 times and 10 times more frequently, respectively [2, 3]. Nevertheless, radial nerve entrapment does occur and can produce significant patient morbidity. Most commonly this occurs in the form of radial tunnel syndrome (RTS), posterior interosseus nerve (PIN) entrapment or Wartenberg’s syndrome. RTS and PIN entrapment are both compressive neuropathies of the PIN, while Wartenberg’s syndrome results from compression of the superficial sensory branch of the radial nerve (SBRN). Although these are the most common clinical entities, radial nerve entrapment can occur at nearly any point along its course, such as at the level of the latissimus tendon, triangular interval, intermuscular septum and triceps [4–6]. These less common possibilities will not be reviewed here but should be remembered in clinical practice.