Bilateral Martin-Gruber and Marinacci Anastomosis Associated with Carpal Tunnel and Guyon's Canal Syndrome: Case Report

Neurodiagn J. 2022 Sep;62(3):147-155. doi: 10.1080/21646821.2022.2077053. Epub 2022 Aug 18.

Abstract

Anastomoses between the median and ulnar nerves are commonly found on electrodiagnostic studies. These anastomoses are usually asymptomatic and are not discovered until nerve injuries occur that lead to unusual motor or sensory deficits. Their presence can cause difficulties in the interpretation of electrophysiological findings for the diagnosis of neuropathies and suppose a risk of iatrogenic damage during surgical procedures. We describe a rare case of bilateral Martin Gruber and Marinacci anastomosis, associated with median and ulnar nerve injuries in the carpal tunnel and Guyon's canal, respectively. The detailed anatomical knowledge of these anastomosis allows the electromyographist to identify them correctly, facilitating the interpretation of the findings and, incidentally, preventing iatrogenic injuries.

Keywords: Electromyography; Marinacci; Martin-Gruber; median nerve; ulnar nerve.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Median Nerve
  • Ulnar Nerve / surgery
  • Wrist / surgery