Pinch strength analyses in lacertus syndrome

Abstract

PurposeLacertus syndrome is defined as proximal median nerve entrapment at the lacertus fibrosus. We aimed to analyze change in pinch strengths in patients who underwent median nerve release at the lacertus fibrosus under WALANT (wide-awake local anesthesia, no tourniquet). MethodsPinch strength was measured with a pinch gauge. Subjective DASH score and pain, numbness in the operated extremity and satisfaction on visual analog scales were analyzed before and 6 weeks after surgery. ResultsThere were 32 patients. Median nerve release under the lacertus fibrosus elicited statistically significant increases in tip-to-tip, lateral and tripod pinch strength at postoperative week 6. Improvements in DASH score, pain and paresthesia were also statistically significant. ConclusionsFor lacertus syndrome treatment, mini-incision release of the lacertus fibrosus under WALANT was satisfactory and increased pinch strength significatively. Level of evidenceTherapeutic, Level IV – Case series.