Primary transection of the superficial peroneal nerve resulting from a distal fibula fracture.
Although a superficial peroneal nerve injury following an ankle fracture occurs frequently, primary transection of the nerve represents a rare injury. This report documents a case of primary lesion of the superficial peroneal nerve sustained following a Weber B bimalleolar ankle fracture. The nerve injury was diagnosed at the initial examination when the patient was found to have hypoesthesia in the area of her third to fifth toes. Subsequently an open reduction and internal fixation of the ankle fracture was done along with primary suture of the superficial peroneal nerve. At the patient's last follow-up at 8 months, the nerve had completely recovered and there was normal ankle range of motion. This report emphasizes the importance of a detailed neurologic examination including testing for sensation in patients with ankle fractures.
Pichler
Wolfgang
W
Department of Traumatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 7a, 8036 Graz, Austria. wolfgang.pichler@klinikum-graz.at
Clement
Hans
H
Boldin
Christian
C
Grechenig
Wolfgang
W
Tesch
Norbort Peter
NP
D005260:Female; D005360:Fibula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010543:Peroneal Nerve / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D011859:Radiography; D013639:Tarsal Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery