Radial Nerve Palsy Following Hemiarthroplasty of Hip: A Case Report Implying the Importance of Perioperative Patient Positioning

Volume 7 | Issue 1 | Jan – April 2019 | Page: 29-31| Nithin M, Shimna C S, Mani N J


Authors: Nithin M [1], Shimna C S [2], Mani N J [1].

[1] Department Of Orthopaedics Baby Memorial Hospital,calicut,kerala
[2] Department Of Physiology Government Medical College, Palakkad, Kerala.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Nithin M,
Sindhooram, Rayonpuram Po Perumbavoor, Kerala-683543
Email: nithinm.tmc@gmail.com


Abstract

Introduction: OIntroduction: Peripheral nerve injury is a dreadfulpost operative complication which is a source of great distress to the patient and the surgeon. An upper limb neuropathy after a lower limb surgery is even worse and difficult to defend in medicolegal litigations as it is essentially avoidable. Radial Nerve Injury can happen due to mechanical compression between hard surgical table and proximal arm while the patient is in a lateral decubitus position. This report signifies the importance of patient positioning and prevention of pressure points peri operatively to reduce the risk of this mishap.
Case Report: A 68 year old female who underwent hemiarthroplasty of the left hip complained of numbness and weakness of the right hand and inability to hold objects. The procedure was done in right lateral decubitus position and it lasted for about 45 minutes. The patient and treatment team had a tough time in the initial post operative period as she was unable to feed herself, hold on to objects and walk with the support of a quadrangular walker due to the weakness of right hand. Splint, rehabilitative exercises and galvanic current stimulation were employed for her treatment.
Conclusion: Our case report stresses the importance of peri operative patient positioning and general awareness of potential complications that can happen which are preventable.
Keywords: Radial Nerve Palsy, Hemiarthroplasty, Lateral decubitus position.


References

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How to Cite this article: Nithin M, Shimna C S, Mani N J. Radial Nerve Palsy Following Hemiarthroplasty of Hip: A Case Report Implying the Importance of Perioperative Patient Positioning. J Kar Orth Assoc. Jan-April 2019; 7(1): 29-31.

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