Traumatic lower extremity and lumbosacral peripheral nerve injuries in adults: Electrodiagnostic studies and patients symptoms.

BACKGROUND

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) are relatively common pathologies in clinical practice. PNIs are rare in the lower extremity but have worse prognosis than those in the upper extremity. Electrodiagnostic studies could help better understanding PNIs. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the distribution of lower extremity PNI in traumatic patients in northwest of Iran.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 74 patients (62 male and 12 female with mean age of 38.39 ± 14.42 years) with possible lower or lumbosacral peripheral nerve injury were studied. Patients' demographic information and physical examination findings were recorded. Electrodiagnostic investigations including electromyography and Nerve Conduction Study were performed for all subjects.

RESULTS

Common chief complaints were pain and weakness. Impairment in the sensory function was present in 59.5% and muscle force reduction in 47.3%. PNIs were present in 23.0% and mostly were severe. Injuries in sciatic nerve were the most common PNIs (16.2%). Electrodiagnostic studies showed radiculopathy in 48.7% and plexopathy in 8.10% of cases. In 52 patients (70.3%), the physical examination findings were compatible with Electrodiagnostic studies.

CONCLUSION

Not all patients presenting with traumatic injuries have lower extremity PNIs. Due to the nature of the trauma and the anatomical course of the nerves, sciatic nerve is more susceptible to traumatic injuries.