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From the Research
Autonomous Zone of the Radial Nerve
The autonomous zone of the radial nerve refers to the area of the body that is exclusively innervated by the radial nerve. This zone is typically located on the:
- Back of the hand
- Dorsolateral area of the hand
- Fingers
Clinical Features
Lesions of the radial nerve can result in sensory manifestations, such as numbness or tingling, in the autonomous zone 1, 2. Motor disorders can also occur, including defects of extension, particularly in the wrist and fingers 1, 2.
Anatomical Features
The radial nerve is a branch of the brachial plexus and is responsible for innervating the extensor muscles of the arm, as well as providing sensory innervation to the back of the arm, forearm, and hand 3, 2. The nerve can be divided into several branches, including the posterior interosseous nerve and the superficial radial nerve 2.
Localization
The radial nerve can be localized using various anatomical landmarks, including the apex of the triceps aponeurosis 4. This landmark can be used to identify the location of the radial nerve during surgical procedures, reducing the risk of nerve damage. Patients who undergo procedures using this landmark are likely to retain their ability to perform active dorsiflexion of the wrist and fingers and have sensory preservation in the distribution of the autonomous zone of the radial nerve 4.