Department of Anaesthesia, and Consultant Clinical Neurophysiologist, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2JF, UK.
Peripheral nerve injuries can occur at any time during the peri-operative period. The long-term disability that results may have serious consequences for a patient. The incidence of peri-operative nerve injuries can be reduced by anaesthetists being aware of their causes and pathophysiology. This review article aims to explain the incidence, pathophysiology and medicolegal implications of peri-operative nerve injury and provides suggestions as to how they may best be avoided.