Radial tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Radial tunnel syndrome is a pain syndrome resulting from compression of the posterior interosseous nerve at the proximal forearm. It has no specific radiologic or electrodiagnostic findings. Treatment should be started conservatively; if not successful, surgical treatment is indicated. The posterior interosseous nerve may be explored through dorsal or anterior approaches. All the potential sites of entrapment should be released, including complete release of the superficial head of the supinator muscle. Surgical treatment is generally successful, but patients who have associated lateral epicondylitis or those who are involved in workers' compensation claims have less successful outcomes.