Diagnostic Biopsy of a Motor Branch of the Superficial Peroneal Nerve to the Peroneus Longus: A Convenient Alternative for Motor Nerve Biopsy.
BACKGROUND
Motor nerve biopsy is performed to supplement clinical, serologic, and imaging data in the workup of neuropathies of unknown origin, especially when motor neuron disease is suspected.


METHODS
We describe a surgical technique for biopsy of a motor branch of the superficial peroneal nerve innervating the peroneus longus muscle.


RESULTS
Three patients presented with weakness concerning for motor neuropathy and underwent biopsy of a motor branch of the superficial peroneal nerve innervating the peroneus longus muscle. The surgical technique is described in detail. Biopsied tissue was sufficient for pathologic diagnosis. No patient suffered postsurgical sensory or motor deficits related to the procedure. No patient suffered postsurgical complications.


CONCLUSIONS
Biopsy of the motor branch of the superficial peroneal nerve to the peroneus longus is a safe and effective alternative for motor nerve biopsy and can be easily combined with peroneus longus muscle biopsy.
["D'Amico|Randy S|RS|", 'Winfree|Christopher J|CJ|']
D000328:Adult D000368:Aged D000369:Aged, 80 and over D001706:Biopsy D005260:Female D006801:Humans D008297:Male D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases D010543:Peroneal Nerve
Superficial peroneal nerve Peroneal nerve Peroneus longus Motor nerve biopsy Nerve biopsy Neuropathy Common peroneal nerve