Nerve Compressions

Compression neuropathies of the upper extremity are common, and are becoming increasingly so due to our ageing population and higher rates of obesity. The sensory and motor changes in the hand associated with compression neuropathy can have an important impact on patient function and quality of life. The surgeon treating compression neuropathies must be cognizant that multiple compression sites and other neurologic or musculoskeletal conditions can contribute to patient symptomatology. A thorough clinical assessment, focusing predominantly on the history and physical examination, is essential to make an accurate diagnosis and thereby perform the most appropriate intervention. This chapter will review the pertinent anatomy, aetiology, and assessment of median, ulnar, and radial nerve compression, as well as address the surgical management of the common nerve compression syndromes.