Injury to the human median and ulnar nerves in the forearm--analysis of costs for treatment and rehabilitation of 69 patients in southern Sweden

J Hand Surg Br. 2005 Feb;30(1):35-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsb.2004.09.003.

Abstract

This study analysed the costs of median and ulnar nerve injuries in the forearm in humans and factors affecting such costs. The costs within the health-care sector and costs of lost production were calculated in 69 patients with an injury to the median and/or ulnar nerve in the forearm, usually caused by glass, a knife, or a razorblade. Factors associated with the variation in costs and outcome were analysed. The total median costs for an employed person with a median and an ulnar nerve injury were EUR 51,238 and EUR 31,186, respectively, and 87% of the total costs were due to loss of production. All costs were higher for patients with concomitant tendon injuries (4 tendons). The costs within the health-care sector were also higher for patients who changed work after the injury and if both nerves were injured. Outcome was dependent on age and repair method.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Costs and Cost Analysis
  • Female
  • Forearm Injuries / complications*
  • Forearm Injuries / economics
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Median Nerve / injuries*
  • Middle Aged
  • Rehabilitation / economics*
  • Sweden
  • Trauma, Nervous System / economics*
  • Trauma, Nervous System / etiology
  • Ulnar Nerve / injuries*