Radial tunnel syndrome: results of surgical decompression by a postero-lateral approach

Abstract

Purpose Our purpose is to describe the results obtained in surgical treatment of a series of patients with symptoms of radial tunnel syndrome. Methods We performed a prospective study on 42 patients (43 limbs) operated for radial tunnel syndrome between 1996 and 2010, using a posterior-external approach. Results Using the Roles and Maudsley criteria, 21 patients had excellent results (48.8%), 16 good (37.2%) and six fair results (13.9%). Most patients were satisfied with the surgery, reporting symptom relief and improved functionality. Conclusions Radial tunnel syndrome consists of intermittent compression of the posterior interosseous nerve in the forearm, with pain and functional disability of the forearm, without motor or sensory electromyogram alterations. Because it is often confused with enthesitis of the epicondyle muscle insertions (an entity often occurring simultaneously), differential diagnosis is necessary with treatment-resistant epicondylitis. The most effective treatment is surgical, releasing all possible nerve compression sites.