Nerve Sensation Changes After Deep Hand Lacerations - Neurosurgery

Share to:

Deep muscle tear in the hand, with numbness after recovery?


Hello doctor, six years ago I sustained a deep laceration on the outer side of my forearm, approximately 8 centimeters from the elbow joint, which severed part of the muscle but did not damage the nerves.
After surgical repair, I have experienced a tingling sensation in the skin on the outer side of my forearm from the injury site to the wrist joint, which feels different from the original sensation.
It seems that the area from the suture site to above the elbow has normal sensation, but the skin from the suture site to the wrist has a tingling feeling.
Does this indicate that the sensory nerves were severed? Will this sensation improve over time? Which specialty should I consult for this issue? Thank you.

Mr. Yao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/18

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery


If it has been six years, the chances of recovery are very low.
It is recommended to consult a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2018/09/18

More Info


Understanding nerve sensation changes after deep hand lacerations is a complex issue that involves the anatomy of the nervous system, the healing process, and potential long-term consequences of injuries. In your case, having experienced a deep laceration six years ago that involved muscle damage but reportedly did not affect the nerves, it is important to consider several factors that could explain the persistent altered sensation in the affected area.

Firstly, even if the nerves were not directly cut during the injury, the trauma can lead to neuropraxia, which is a temporary loss of function due to nerve compression or damage. This can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" sensation in the area supplied by the affected nerve. Over time, if the nerve does not heal properly or if there is scar tissue formation, it can lead to chronic changes in sensation. The fact that you describe a distinct boundary at the site of the injury, where sensation changes from normal to altered, suggests that there may be localized nerve damage or dysfunction.

Moreover, the healing process can sometimes lead to the development of neuromas, which are benign growths of nerve tissue that can form at the site of nerve injury. These can cause abnormal sensations and pain. Additionally, the surrounding tissues, including muscles and fascia, can also contribute to altered sensations if they become tight or scarred as a result of the injury.

As for the question of whether this condition can recover, it largely depends on the extent of the nerve involvement and the body's healing capabilities. In cases where nerve function is compromised but not completely severed, there may be potential for recovery over time, especially with appropriate rehabilitation. However, if significant time has passed (as in your case, six years), the likelihood of full recovery diminishes.
To address your concerns, it would be advisable to consult with a neurologist who specializes in nerve injuries. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG), to assess the function of the nerves in your arm and hand. This will help determine if there is ongoing nerve damage or if other factors are contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, the altered sensation you are experiencing could be due to a variety of factors related to your previous injury, including nerve dysfunction, scar tissue formation, or even the development of neuromas. While there may be some potential for recovery, particularly with targeted rehabilitation, the extent of recovery can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. A neurologist will be best equipped to evaluate your condition and recommend an appropriate course of action.

Similar Q&A

Addressing Post-Traumatic Nerve Issues After Finger Laceration

Hello, doctor. Five years ago, I accidentally injured my left index finger while operating a machine, which required several stitches. The wound has healed, but I am experiencing abnormal sensations in the area where the stitches were placed (there is very poor tactile sensation)...


Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
This is an old injury from five years ago. It is likely that the digital nerve was damaged at that time. Since the wound has been present for a long time, it is possible that even if the nerve has reconnected, there may not be any improvement.

[Read More] Addressing Post-Traumatic Nerve Issues After Finger Laceration


Post-Surgery Hand Numbness: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Recently, I underwent general anesthesia for surgery. The first attempt to insert a peripheral intravenous catheter was on the lateral side of my wrist (at the extension of the thumb), but the vein was not successfully accessed. I experienced a pain that felt deeper than a typica...


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Zhao, You mentioned experiencing a tingling sensation in your index finger that feels like an electric shock at the back of your hand. I would like to know if you have also noticed any weakness in your wrist or fingers. Your symptoms may indicate that the sensory fibers...

[Read More] Post-Surgery Hand Numbness: When to Seek Medical Attention?


Understanding Nerve Injury Symptoms After Surgery: What to Expect

I had a fracture in my arm that required surgery. On the day of the injury, I only knew that my humerus was fractured (Monday), and the doctor scheduled the surgery for the day after tomorrow (Wednesday). After the surgery, I informed the doctor that I had lost sensation in my ri...


Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Based on your symptoms, it appears that you have an ulnar nerve injury. Generally, symptoms arise when a nerve is injured; however, it is also possible that the nerve itself is not initially damaged but may gradually be compressed or stretched by surrounding edema, affecting its ...

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Injury Symptoms After Surgery: What to Expect


Understanding Nerve Issues After Amputation: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I accidentally cut my finger with a chainsaw at work a while ago, losing about 2 centimeters. After going to the hospital for surgery, the wound has healed, and the finger is starting to grow dead skin and nails. When my hand is at rest, the injured finger experienc...


Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
1. The amputated area may be located right at the "nail matrix," which is why some nail growth may still occur. 2. The symptoms of pain and numbness can be challenging to manage, and sometimes it may be necessary to trim it a bit more. 3. It would be better to consult w...

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Issues After Amputation: Causes and Solutions


Related FAQ

Finger Numbness

(Neurosurgery)

Nerves

(Neurosurgery)

Hands

(Neurosurgery)

Severe Palmar Hyperhidrosis

(Neurosurgery)

Left Foot Numbness

(Neurosurgery)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

(Neurosurgery)

Ulnar Nerve

(Neurology)

Feet

(Neurosurgery)

Symptoms After A Car Accident

(Neurosurgery)

Facial And Hand Numbness

(Neurology)