Intraoperative peripheral nerve injury (IPNI) is a debilitating and costly complication that can follow anesthesia during surgery (Anesthesiology 1999;90:1062-9). The most recent closed claims analyses spanning 2007 to 2014 indicate that 13.5%-14% of claims were due to nerve injury, ranking nerve damage as the third most common perioperative injury behind teeth damage, and death or pain (J Patient Saf 2021;17:513-21; J Healthc Risk Manag 2014;34:31-42). IPNI can result in permanent loss of limb function in up to 23% of patients and an average cost of claims reaching $46,269 (J Clin Anesth 2019;58:84-90; Best Pract Res Clin Anaesthesiol 2011;25:263-76).
Any IPNI is likely influenced by several preexisting factors, including neuropathy, patient comorbidities, and medical errors (J Clin Anesth 2019;58:84-90; Surg Neurol 2005;63:5-18).
Risk factors for IPNI pertaining to preexisting neuropathies and comorbidities include diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, anorexia, obesity, tobacco...
