Traumatic Nerve Injury
Description
Nerves can be injured during blunt trauma (MVA, fall) or penetrating trauma (gunshot wound, stab wound). If the nerve is only stunned it is called a neuropraxia, and full recovery can be expected. Blunt traumas are more likely to cause neuropraxias. Transected nerves from penetrating trauma cause immediate loss of function, both muscle and sensation, and do not return unless surgically repaired.
Symptoms
The area affected depends on which nerve is damaged. Symptoms include: weakness, paralysis, numbness, tingling, burning sensation.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests to identify the injury may be done.
- MRI
Treatment
Treatment depends on the extent, location and type of injury. Observation is recommended in blunt trauma since the nerve function can return with immobilization and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Penetrating trauma that involves a transection of the nerve will usually require surgical repair is possible.
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