Upper arm fracture with nerve entrapment - rapid surgery saves arm function
Pinched nerve - hand completely paralyzed
The fracture was a fracture of the humerus. The fact that the radial nerve – an important arm nerve – was trapped between the bone fragments was particularly critical. The patient suffered from a so-called “drop hand”: The wrist could no longer be actively lifted, and the fingers also showed no function. The arm was practically functionally paralyzed.
Immediate surgery - nerve release and osteosynthesis
Surgical treatment was performed immediately after diagnosis. The bone fragments were straightened and stabilized with a plate (osteosynthesis). The trapped nerve was carefully exposed and released from pressure. This combination of bone reconstruction and nerve decompression was crucial for restoring function.
The first improvement was already evident the day after the operation – the motor function of the arm returned.
Result: complete restoration of hand function
Thanks to the rapid surgical intervention, the radial nerve was saved. The patient regained full function of his hand and is now able to go about his daily life without any restrictions.
Medical terms used:
Humerus fracture – Fracture of the humerus.
Radial nerve – Important arm nerve that enables the wrist and fingers to be extended.
Drop hand – Typical paralysis of the wrist due to damage to the radial nerve.
Osteosynthesis – Surgical connection of bone fragments using plates or screws.
