Objective:To investigate the causes

the prevention and the treatment of iatrogenic radial nerve injuries.Methods: From March 1987 to March 2000

the authors treated 36 cases of iatrogenic radial nerve injuries .Of the 36 cases

33 cases occurred after the orthopaedic operation

3 cases occurred after the manipulative reduction. 32 cases were treated surgically

and the other 4 cases were treated non-surgically. 8 cases were repaired by epineurial suturing or by epi-fascicular suturing to connect the severed ends of the nerves. 19 cases were treated with neurolysis operation

8 cases with tendon transfer and 3 cases with palliative treatment. Results: 27 cases were followed up for 1 year to 6 years. The curative effect was assessed according to Zhang Xianzhong"s norm. The recovery of 20 cases were excellent

4 cases were good

3 cases were poor.Conclusion:The iatrogenic radial nerve injury can be avoided if the surgeon take a high responsibility and grasp a precise knowledge of pertinent anatomy. At the same time more attention should be paid in operation. Once incurred

the damage can be minimized if it is recognised and treated earlier.