treatment
Last reviewed 01/2018
Carefully managed, the prognosis of radial nerve lesions are good. A splint should be used to maintain extension of the wrist with a system of elastic extension for the fingers. Returning muscular function is usually evident within 4 to 8 months, according the site of the lesion.
Posterior interosseous palsy rarely recovers spontaneously; immediate exploration is required. If this is unsuccessful or thought to be too late to be of benefit, then tendon transfer should be considered. Most often, the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris is used; it is re-routed and attached to the common extensor tendons. Finger extension does not have to be a powerful action; it is necessary only to bring the hand to a position in which an object can be gripped.