Rapid ultrasonographic diagnosis of radial entrapment neuropathy at the spiral groove.

BACKGROUND: Entrapment neuropathy of the radial nerve at the spiral groove region is relatively common. However, its localization may be technically challenging.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of ultrasound (US), in relation to electrophysiological testing, for this purpose.

METHODS: We studied 32 normal controls to obtain US parameters of the radial nerve. In addition, 10 patients with suspected radial neuropathy were tested using US and electrophysiological techniques.

RESULTS: US examination correctly identified all 6 patients with radial neuropathy. The other 4 patients with alternate diagnoses did not show US abnormalities exceeding that of normal controls. US examination required a significantly shorter time than electrophysiological testing.

CONCLUSIONS: US is of value as a rapid diagnostic adjunct for the localization of radial nerve entrapment.