Neurotmesis is a total severance or disruption of the entire nerve fiber. A peripheral nerve fiber contains an axon (Or long dendrite), myelin sheath (if existence), their Schwann cells, and the endoneurium. Neurotmesis may be partial or complete.

Sensory-motor problems and autonomic function defects are severe.

The radial nerve can be damaged in the axilla region by a dislocation at the shoulder joint, or a fracture of the proximal humerus. Occasionally, it is injured via excessive pressure on the nerve within the axilla (use of crutches) or falling asleep with the arm draped over a sofa.

Motor functions – the triceps brachii and muscles in posterior compartment are affected. The patient is unable to extend at the elbow, wrist, and fingers. Unopposed flexion of wrist occurs, known as wrist-drop.
Sensory functions – all four cutaneous branches of the radial nerve are affected. There will be a loss of sensation over the lateral and posterior arm, posterior forearm, and dorsal surface of the lateral three and a half

The radial nerve can be damaged in the mid -shaft of the humerus, commonly during a fall and subsequent humeral fracture.

Motor functions – The radial nerve is most likely to be damaged in humerus fractures that have a lateral displacement of the distal fracture segment, as the nerve is tethered to the bone and cannot withstand the forces applied to it as a result of the displacement. On physical exam, patients with a radial nerve injury may have wrist drop (loss or weakness of wrist extensors), loss or weakness of finger extension.
Up to 90% of patients with a closed humeral fracture with radial nerve injury will have a resolution of neuropraxia within three to four months following the injury.
Sensory decreased or absent sensation to the posterior forearm, digits 1 to 3, and the radial half of the fourth digit.

Low-Profile Radial Nerve Palsy Orthosis

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