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Supracondylar Apophysis of the Humerus: Rare Cause of High Compression of the Median Nerve.

Luísa VitalVitor VidinhaNuno NevesPedro Negrão
Published in: Revista brasileira de ortopedia (2020)
Supracondylar apophysis (SA) is a bony prominence that originates from the anteromedial aspect of the distal humerus with a lower projection and which, although usually asymptomatic, due to the relationship with adjacent structures can cause symptoms. We describe the case of a 42-year-old woman with pain complaints radiating from her elbow to her hand, with 6 months of evolution. On objective examination, the patient had a sensory deficit in the median nerve territory and decreased grip strength. Radiographs of the distal humerus were performed, in which a bone spike was visible, and magnetic resonance imaging showed thickening of the median nerve epineurium. Electromyography showed severe axonal demyelination of the median nerve proximal to the elbow. A median nerve compression caused by a SA was diagnosed. The patient underwent surgery and, 1 year after the operation, she had a complete clinical recovery. Supracondylar apophysis is a rare, but possible and treatable cause of high median nerve compression.
Keyphrases
  • peripheral nerve
  • magnetic resonance imaging
  • minimally invasive
  • case report
  • chronic pain
  • early onset
  • magnetic resonance
  • physical activity
  • depressive symptoms
  • neuropathic pain
  • spinal cord