Proximal Martin-Gruber anastomosis mimicking ulnar neuropathy at the elbow.

Abstract

We present a case of Martin-Gruber anastomosis (MGA) mimicking conduction block between the above- and below-elbow sites of ulnar nerve stimulation. We review the anatomical and electrophysiological literature on this subject and discuss its clinical implications. The potential for a MGA to occur very proximally in the forearm and thus mimic ulnar neuropathy at the elbow is underrecognized. We recommend that a check for MGA be performed on all patients with an apparent conduction block at the elbow, and suggest that 3 cm distal to the medial epicondyle may be an optimal below-elbow ulnar nerve stimulation site.

• Authors: C Marras, G Midroni
• Journal: Muscle & nerve (Muscle Nerve) Vol. 22 Issue 8 Pg. 1132-5 (Aug 1999) ISSN: 0148-639X [Print] United States
• PMID: 10417799 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Topics

• Adult
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (diagnosis, physiopathology)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Elbow (innervation, physiology)
• Female
• Humans
• Neural Conduction (physiology)
• Ulnar Neuropathies (diagnosis, physiopathology)