Posterior interosseous nerve palsy due to lipoma] [Article in Turkish] Levent Eralp 1, Harzem Ozger, Korhan Ozkan

Posterior Interosseous Nerve Compression and Forearm Paralysis

A 45-year-old male patient presented with a slow-onset paralysis localized in the right forearm and hand muscles. This clinical condition necessitated a comprehensive diagnostic approach to identify the underlying cause of the motor deficit.

Diagnostic Findings and Imaging Results

The initial electromyographic (EMG) assessment revealed severe denervation in the muscles innervated by the posterior interosseous nerve. To visualize the structural cause of this denervation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed. The MRI results demonstrated a tumoral mass that was actively compressing the nerve.

Surgical Intervention and Pathological Confirmation

Based on the clinical and radiological findings, the patient underwent surgical excision with a preliminary diagnosis of a lipoma. During the procedure, surgical exploration was performed, and a biopsy was taken. The biopsy results officially confirmed the diagnosis of a lipoma as the cause of the nerve compression.

Post-Operative Recovery and Functional Outcomes

The patient’s recovery process showed significant progress following the surgical removal of the mass. The restoration of motor functions occurred according to the following timeline:

• 3 Weeks Post-Operation: Active wrist movements and digital extension were successfully restored.
• 6 Weeks Post-Operation: The patient regained full strength in the affected muscles.