[Traction on the orthopedic table and pudendal nerve injury. Importance of electrophysiologic examination].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

We performed a retrospective study about perioperative pudendal nerve palsy following fracture table tractions.

MATERIAL

Six palsies were investigated. Mean age was 26 years. All of them presented sensitive and motor dysfunctions secondary to nerve compression following tractions on the fracture table.

METHODS

All of them had complete electrophysiological recordings including perineal electromyogram, measurement of sacral roots latencies, sensory velocity of the dorsal nerve of the penis, somatosensory evoked potentials of the pudendal nerve and measurement of its terminal branches.

RESULTS

Neurological symptoms were stereotyped associating sensory signs and sexual disorders, must of them being transient. Perineal electrophysiological examination always confirmed reality of pudendal nerve palsy.

DISCUSSION

We discuss incidence, mechanism, etiology and prevention of this pudendal nerve palsy.

CONCLUSION

Emergence of stereotyped perineal symptoms following orthopaedic surgery, especially after tractions on fracture table, must prevail on physicians to search for pudendal nerve palsy. Usual outcome is good in the six months following surgery, but definitive aftermath does occur. Perineal electrophysiological examination can confirm pudendal nerve palsy and give prognosis elements.