Quantitation of axon loss and conduction block in acute radial nerve palsies

Eleven acute radial nerve palsies were examined between 3 days and 14 weeks following the onset of the neuropathy. Our objective was to quantify the relative extent of axon loss and conduction block in radial motor fibers supplying the extensor and abductor pollicis longus (EPL/APL) muscles. In 10 of 11 cases, conduction block exceeded axon loss. Maximum motor and sensory conduction velocities were normal distal to the spiral groove, suggesting …