[Radial tunnel syndrome. Study of a continuous and homogenous series of 35 cases].

Thirty-five patients in a continuous and homogenous series of radial tunnel syndromes treated surgically between 1980 and 1987 were re-examined by an independent observer with a follow-up greater than six months. Electromyographic studies in each case had confirmed the presence of a neurological lesion and such studies were considered to be of value when nerve compression was combined with other local painful conditions. Neurolysis was performed with optical magnification through a lateral approach. The clinical results were assessed using the criteria of Roles and Maudsley. Apart from one case which showed an inadequate result, there were 14 excellent, 11 good and 9 fair results. Post-operative electromyographic studies were performed in 30 cases and showed a significant improvement in the shape and adequacy of the tracings compared with the pre-operative condition. Among the fair or poor results, 60 per cent showed an associated radiculopathy of C7 compared with 16 per cent in the good and excellent results.