Week 9 - radial nerve

Question 1

Radial nerve course

Answer 1

• On reaching the lateral side of the humerus it passes between brachialis and brachioradialis, and more distally - ECRL
• Anterior to the lateral epicondyle it divides into superficial and deep branches
• Superficial radial nerve is sensory only (to snuffbox)
• Deep radial nerve (aka posterior interosseous nerve) is a motor nerve supplying muscles of the posterior forearm
• Passes through supinator

Question 2

Radial nerve distribution

Answer 2

Muscular branches supply:
– triceps brachii
– anconeus
– supinator
– brachioradialis
– extensor carpi radialis longus
– extensor carpi radialis brevis
– extensor digitorum
– extensor digiti minimi
– extensor carpi ulnaris
– extensor pollicis longus
– extensor pollicis brevis
– abductor pollicis longus
– extensor indicis

Question 3

Radio nerve injuries

Answer 3

Injuries (axilla or posterior humerus):
- Axilla
- Humeral/ Lateral epicondyle fracture
- Radial head dislocation