Ulnar neuropathy as a complication of retinal detachment surgery and face-down positioning

Case Rep Ophthalmol. 2011 May;2(2):243-5. doi: 10.1159/000330692. Epub 2011 Aug 2.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of bilateral ulnar neuropathy as an extraocular complication following retinal detachment surgery and face-down positioning.

Methods: Case report.

Results: Bilateral hypoesthesia and numbness of the 4th and 5th finger started 2 weeks after vitrectomy for retinal detachment and face-down positioning. Due to progressive symptoms 6 months later, unilateral ulnar nerve decompression at the elbow was performed.

Conclusions: This case report demonstrates that strict face-down positioning bears the risk of ulnar neuropathy.

Keywords: Face-down positioning; Ulnar neuropathy; Vitrectomy complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports