We dissected 20 preserved Caucasian cadaveric upper limbs looking at the relation of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (SBRN) to the brachioradialis tendon. SBRN emerged from deep to superficial position by piercing the brachioradialis tendon near its dorsal border in four limbs. The resulting dorsal tendinous band compressed the nerve and prevented longitudinal gliding movement during ulnar flexion. This is likely to increase the risk of chronic compression neuropathy (Wartenberg's syndrome). In two of these four limbs, there was a communication between the SBRN and lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm. No such communication was found in the remaining 16 forearms. This communication could contribute to the minimal area of sensory loss observed in Wartenberg's syndrome. We recommend that this anatomical anomaly is looked for and if present dealt with during surgical treatment of Wartenberg's syndrome, as it is likely to predispose to chronic compression neuropathy.
Wartenberg’s syndrome is a peripheral neuropathy caused by entrapment of the superficial radial nerve (SRN), presenting with paresthesia in the nerve distribution [1]. Currently, there are no established guidelines or recommendations for the proper treatment of this condition. As such, the objective of this paper is to complete a literature review outlining the diagnosis and treatment of Wartenberg’s syndrome.
Wartenberg’s Syndrome: an Unusual Bilateral Case.
