ABSTRACT
In this study, the long-term results of secondary common peroneal nerve repair are
evaluated. The general consensus has been that the long-term outcome of peroneal nerve
repair is poor, because of its mixed sensory-motor nature and the long distance necessary
for axon regeneration. Since the introduction of microneurosurgery and autogenous
nerve grafting, an amelioration of poor results might be expected; however, recent
reports on common peroneal nerve repair are not available. Four patients underwent
either direct peroneal nerve repair (2) or nerve grafting (2) over a five-year period.
Dorsiflexion was achieved with peroneal muscle power Grade 3 or above in three patients.
The fourth patient is still regaining peroneal power and has not plateaued. These
results show that secondary common peroneal nerve repair, even with autogenous nerve
grafting, is a worthwile procedure. The age of the patient, the timing of the repair,
meticulous microsurgical technique, and avoidance of tension are critical factors
in achieving a successful outcome.
