## Overview Radial nerve paralysis is loss of function of the radial nerve, most commonly from compression during general anesthesia or from humeral fracture. The horse cannot extend the elbow, carpus, or digit, resulting in a dropped elbow, knuckling, and inability to bear weight normally. Dragging of the dorsal hoof is typical. ## Causes Compression neuropathy or trauma. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and radiographs to rule out fracture. ## Treatment Splinting, nursing care, and time. Fracture cases require different management and have a poor prognosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good for pure compressive lesions. Grave with humeral fracture. ## Prevention Careful anesthetic positioning.
inability to extend the elbow, carpus, and digit; dropped elbow with knuckling; inability to bear weight; dragging the dorsal hoof
## Overview Radial nerve paralysis is loss of function of the radial nerve, most commonly from compression during general anesthesia or from humeral fracture. The horse cannot extend the elbow, carpus, or digit, resulting in a dropped elbow, knuckling, and inability to bear weight normally. Dragging of the dorsal hoof is typical. ## Causes Compression neuropathy or trauma. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and radiographs to rule out fracture. ## Treatment Splinting, nursing care, and time. Fracture cases require different management and have a poor prognosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good for pure compressive lesions. Grave with humeral fracture. ## Prevention Careful anesthetic positioning.
inability to extend the elbow, carpus, and digit; dropped elbow with knuckling; inability to bear weight; dragging the dorsal hoof