Posterior Interosseous Neuropathy Related to a Loose Distal Biceps Cortical Button: A Case Series

Abstract

Posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury is an uncommon yet debilitating complication following distal bicep tendon repair. There are case reports of acute intraoperative PIN injury related to retractor placement, drill trajectory, and nerve incarceration. We report three cases of delayed PIN neuropath y in the setting of a loose cortical button. All patients had resolution of their pain with removal of the cortical button and decompression of the radial tunnel. The purpose of this case series is to: 1) highlight the possibility of a loose cortical bicep button as the cause of proximal forearm pain and PIN neuropathy in the early or late postoperative timeframe; and 2) emphasize the importance of proper surgical technique and use of intraoperative fluoroscopy to assure the cortical button is well-fixed and flush with the radial shaft. Level of evidence: IV