The incidence of MGA in the general population as identified by MSE.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The incidence of Martin-Gruber anastomosis in the general population as identified by median nerve stimulation at the elbow.
IRAS ID
130310
Contact name
Sally Walters
Contact email
Research summary
Martin-Gruber anastomosis is a neural connection between the median and ulnar nerves in the forearm. Knowledge of the incidence and electrophysiological identification of this anastomosis is imperative as the findings can be confused with ulnar neuropathy, particularly misdiagnosis of ulnar nerve lesions at the elbow (Amoiridis et al., 2003; Whitaker et al., 2004). There are several techniques which have been used in order to identify the anastomosis; one of which is median nerve stimulation at the elbow (MSE) whilst recording at the abductor digiti minim (ADM) and/or first dorsal interosseous (FDI) which are usually innervated solely by the ulnar nerve (Erdem et al., 2002). Whilst having its limitations, this is the technique generally used within the department as it is arguably a relatively simple and efficient way of identifying the anastomosis in clinic. The technique has not as yet been integrated into our protocol as part of median and ulnar nerve screening so the anastomosis may still be overlooked in some cases. This study will therefore aim to investigate the prevalence of Martin-Gruber anastomosis in the general population using this technique. Patients from carpal tunnel screening clinics will be tested upon. The incidence using this technique will also be compared with recent studies using other more complex techniques which are clinically not viable. The study will be carried out with a view to incorporate the technique into relevant nerve conduction screening protocols in order to raise awareness of the anastomosis and avoid misdiagnosis of ulnar nerve neuropathy.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/WM/0280
Date of REC Opinion
15 Aug 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion