Medical Student SHSU-COM Spring, Texas, United States
Case Diagnosis: The patient presented with a diagnosis of Posterior Interosseous Nerve (PIN) palsy after undergoing distal biceps tendon repair.
Case Description: A 42-year-old male with a history of left biceps tendon repair in June 2023 presented with symptoms of numbness and tingling in the left forearm, along with weakness in wrist and finger extension. These symptoms developed following the biceps tendon repair procedure. Despite undergoing physical therapy and bracing, the patient reported only minimal improvements in his symptoms.
Discussions: Posterior Interosseous Nerve (PIN) palsy is a rare complication following surgeries involving the proximal forearm and elbow. The PIN, a branch of the radial nerve, innervates muscles responsible for wrist and finger extension. In this case, the patient's PIN palsy likely resulted from surgical or postoperative nerve injury.
PIN palsy presents with numbness, tingling, and weakness in wrist and finger extension. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies confirmed the diagnosis.
Management includes conservative measures like physical therapy and bracing. Surgical intervention may be considered if symptoms persist or worsen. Early recognition and intervention are vital for optimal outcomes. Further research and case studies are needed to enhance treatment strategies.
Conclusions: This case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing Posterior Interosseous Nerve (PIN) palsy as a potential complication following distal biceps tendon repair. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in assessing and managing nerve-related symptoms in patients undergoing upper extremity surgeries, as timely intervention can significantly impact the patient's long-term outcomes. Further research and additional case studies are warranted to refine treatment strategies and improve patient care in similar cases.
