A review of 100 iatrogenic nerve injuries: delays in referrals remain significant.

INTRODUCTION

This is a retrospective study of 100 consecutive patients with iatrogenic nerve injuries, as seen in a tertiary referral centre over a six-year period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who presented with new-onset nerve palsy involving a motor or mixed motor/sensory nerve following an operation were studied.

RESULTS

There were 44 male and 56 female patients with a mean age of 53 years (range 5-87 years). The median duration from the index procedures to referral was six months (range 0 days to 12 years). Approximately one third of referrals were made over 12 months since the index procedures. Twenty patients recovered spontaneously and were managed expectantly. Eighty patients underwent secondary interventions.

DISCUSSION

There remains a significant delay in referring postoperative nerve palsy to a nerve specialist. The majority of these cases will warrant secondary reconstructive surgery and delay in treatment may have a negative effect on the ultimate outcomes.