The Froment-Rauber nerve: a case report and review

Abstract

Introduction: The Froment-Rauber nerve is a rarely described anomalous nerve arising from 1 of the terminal branches of the radial nerve that provides innervation to intrinsic hand muscles. We describe a 26-year-old man who had a traumatic radial nerve injury that resulted in first dorsal interosseous muscle wasting. He presented to our clinic 2.5 years post-injury, after having had unnecessarily undergone surgical exploration of the ulnar nerve.

Methods: The patient's history, clinical examination, and multiple electrodiagnostic tests were reviewed.

Results: All findings were consistent with a diagnosis of anomalous innervation via a Froment-Rauber nerve.

Conclusions: Understanding this rare phenomenon may aid in diagnosing confusing clinical cases and prevent unnecessary procedures.