HIP FRACTURES-SCIATIC NERVE DAMAGE CAUSES

SUMMARY

1. Neuropraxia: due to stretching during excessive retraction, limb-lengthening, inadvertent compression due to positioning or bedrest in recovery.

2. Neurotmesis: direct trauma, heat from polymerizing cement or diathermy.

3. Vascular compromise/injury: due to trauma, haematoma.

4. HO (late cause): uncommon (0-3%). Peroneal division of sciatic nerve most common affected (80%). Risk factors: developmental dysplasia of hip, revision surgery, female gender, limb lengthening, post-traumatic arthritis. 35-40% recover full strength after palsy.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.