Reconstructive · Hand
Peripheral Nerve Injuries
Microsurgical repair of damaged nerves to restore sensation and motor function in the upper extremity.
What it is
Peripheral nerves carry signals for feeling and movement between the brain and the arm and hand. When a nerve is cut or damaged, microsurgical repair aims to join the nerve ends so that they can slowly regrow.
Who it’s for
- People with numbness or weakness after a cut to the arm, wrist or hand; seek urgent care promptly
- Those with nerve damage from fractures, crush or stretch injuries
- People with a nerve injury that has not recovered as expected
- Patients needing nerve grafts or transfers for longer gaps
How it’s done
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Step 01
The injury is assessed, and nerve tests may be arranged.
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Step 02
Surgery is usually done under regional or general anaesthesia.
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Step 03
The nerve ends are trimmed and joined with very fine stitches under a microscope.
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Step 04
If there is a gap, a nerve graft or nerve transfer may be used.
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Step 05
The limb is splinted to protect the repair, followed by therapy.
Recovery time
Nerves regrow slowly, often around 1 mm a day, so recovery can take many months to a year or more. Therapy helps maintain joint movement while the nerve recovers. Your surgeon will advise based on your assessment.
Results
Sensation and muscle strength may return gradually over months. Recovery varies with age, the nerve involved and the level of injury, and full recovery is not always possible.
Results vary from person to person.
Questions about Peripheral Nerve Injuries
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A cut nerve is usually assessed and repaired early. Seek urgent care promptly if you notice numbness or weakness after an injury.
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Nerves regrow slowly, so it can take many months. Your surgeon will monitor your progress.
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Yes, therapy helps keep joints supple and retrain sensation and movement as the nerve recovers.
Results vary from person to person. The information on this website is for general education and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. Procedures carry risks, which will be discussed with you before any treatment. Page copy pending medical review