The pathophysiology of nerve compression

Abstract

The basic pathophysiology of an acute and chronic nerve compression lesion is complex. Compression of a peripheral nerve induces marked changes in intraneural microcirculation and nerve fiber structure, impairment of axonal transport, and alterations in vascular permeability, with edema formation and deterioration of nerve function. The peripheral nerves of subjects with underlying neuropathies are more susceptible to compression injury.