Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Nerve injuries caused by medical interventions (Iatrogenic lesions) can complicate procedures and affect any part of the peripheral nervous system. Available data is fragmentary and little information is accessible on the overall incidence of iatrogenic nerve lesions that ranges from 1.5 to 15%.[1, 2] Major drawbacks are the limited number of patients studied and the incomplete and subjective assessment of nerve function. The potential for iatrogenic injuries in the course of any surgical procedure should be thoroughly appreciated by all surgeons and they should be familiar with early diagnostic steps for detecting these lesions. The importance of prompt diagnosis and adequate treatment of iatrogenic nerve injuries for optimal functional recovery. Excellent results can be obtained if certain diagnostic and surgical principles are followed.