Principles of Nerve Regeneration and Surgical Repair

ABSTRACT

In this article the principles of nerve anatomy, injury, and regeneration are first reviewed. This provides the basic background to consider and select patients who need surgical exploration and nerve repair. The principles of operative exploration and intraoperative management of nerve injury are discussed. Various conventional nerve repair techniques, including direct epineurial repair, grouped fascicular repair, fascicular repair, and nerve grafting, are described. The indications for use, as well as the relative advantages and disadvantages of each technique, are discussed. The experimental and clinical evidence from a review of the pertinent literature does not demonstrate a significant difference in outcome of one method over the others. Surgical decisions should be made by a thorough evaluation of all aspects of the nerve injury and surgical methods.

KEYWORD

Nerve graft - nerve injury - nerve repair - regeneration

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