Acute Traumatic Median, Ulnar, and Radial Nerve Injuries: Epidemiology and Long-Term Outcomes

This observational study examines the long-term outcomes of people who have suffered acute traumatic injuries to the major nerves of the hand and arm — specifically the median, ulnar, and radial nerves — including how well function and sensation recover over time with surgical or conservative management. Nerve injuries of the upper limb can cause lasting disability, and better understanding of outcomes across different injury types and treatments will help guide future care. Eligible participants are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with a recent traumatic peripheral nerve injury in the upper extremity, who are able to provide informed consent and complete functional evaluations; those with prior nerve surgery in the same arm or central nervous system disorders are excluded. Participation involves clinical assessments and follow-up evaluations to track nerve recovery, strength, and function over time. This summary was prepared using AI to help patients understand the study in plain language.